Spectacled Owl
NameSpectacled Owl
Common NameSpectacled Owl
Scientific NamePulsatrix perspicillata
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)83.5
Length (cm)46.5
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsAdults have dark brown to sooty black upperparts and head, with striking white or pale yellow 'spectacles' around the dark eyes. The underparts are buffy white to yellowish, separated from the throat by a broad dark brown breast band. Juveniles are mostly white with a dark facial mask.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of deep, guttural hoots, often described as 'BOO-BOO-BOO-BOO-BOO' or 'pup-pup-pup-pup-pooh'. It also produces various growls, hisses, and bill-clapping sounds.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatstropical rainforest, subtropical rainforest, dense woodland, gallery forest, plantations
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Spectacled Owl ranges from southern Mexico through Central America and Trinidad, extending south through much of northern South America to southern Brazil and northern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesProminent white or pale yellow 'spectacles' around dark eyes, Dark brown body with a distinct dark breast band, Large size for an owl in its range, No ear tufts
Description
The Spectacled Owl is a large, dark owl easily recognized by the prominent white or pale yellow markings around its eyes, resembling spectacles. This nocturnal predator inhabits dense tropical and subtropical forests, where it hunts a variety of small to medium-sized prey.
