Santa Marta Screech-Owl
NameSanta Marta Screech-Owl
Common NameSanta Marta Screech-Owl
Scientific NameOtus gilesi
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)90
Plumage DetailsPredominantly rufous-brown plumage, finely streaked and barred with darker brown and some paler mottling on the underparts. The facial disc is rufous, and it has bright yellow eyes. It typically lacks prominent ear tufts or has very small, inconspicuous ones.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are described as a series of short, rapid hoots or trills, often accelerating in pace.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Santa Marta Mountains in northern Colombia.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Rufous-brown plumage, Bright yellow eyes, Lack of prominent ear tufts, Restricted range in Santa Marta Mountains
Description
The Santa Marta Screech-Owl is a small, rufous-brown owl endemic to the high-altitude montane forests of the Santa Marta Mountains in Colombia. This nocturnal species is characterized by its bright yellow eyes and finely streaked plumage, blending well with its forest habitat.
