Spectacled Owl
NameSpectacled Owl
Common NameSpectacled Owl
Scientific NamePulsatrix perspicillata
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)83.5
Length (cm)46.5
Weight (g)825
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark brown to black upperparts, head, and a broad chest band. The face features prominent white or buff 'spectacles' around the bright yellow eyes, contrasting sharply with the dark facial disc. The underparts are pale buff to whitish.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a deep, guttural series of hoots, often described as 'PUP-pup-pup-pup-pup-po' or 'BOO-boo-boo-boo-boo', which can accelerate. They also produce barks, whistles, and various other calls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, subtropical forest, gallery forest, mangrove forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in humid tropical and subtropical forests from southern Mexico through Central America and Trinidad, extending south into northern Argentina and southern Brazil.
Identifying Featuresprominent white 'spectacles' around yellow eyes, dark brown/black head and upperparts, pale buff underparts, large size
Description
The Spectacled Owl is a large, robust owl characterized by its striking facial markings that resemble spectacles. It is a nocturnal predator, primarily hunting small to medium-sized mammals and birds in its tropical forest habitat.
