Rufous-banded Owl
NameRufous-banded Owl
Common NameRufous-banded Owl
Scientific NameStrix albitarsis
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)67.5
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark rufous-brown, heavily barred with blackish-brown. Underparts are whitish to buff, heavily barred with rufous-brown and blackish-brown. The facial disc is rufous-brown with darker concentric barring, and the eyes are dark brown. Legs and feet are feathered white.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of deep, hooting notes, often described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'whoo-whoo-whoo-whoo-whoo' with varying tempo and pitch.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes mountains of South America, ranging from Venezuela south through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesDark eyes, Rich rufous and dark brown barred plumage, Feathered white tarsi and toes, Inhabits montane cloud forests
Description
The Rufous-banded Owl is a medium-sized, nocturnal owl characterized by its rich rufous and dark brown plumage, heavily barred and mottled. It inhabits montane cloud forests, where its cryptic coloration provides excellent camouflage among the dense foliage.
