White-throated Screech-Owl
NameWhite-throated Screech-Owl
Common NameWhite-throated Screech-Owl
Scientific NameMegascops albogularis
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)160
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly dark brown, heavily mottled and streaked with black and buff, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. It features prominent white patches on either side of the throat, bright yellow irises, and small, often inconspicuous, ear tufts. The facial disc is not strongly defined.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of deep, guttural hoots or a rapid, low-pitched trill, often described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or a fast 'purr'.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Andes Mountains of South America, ranging from Venezuela and Colombia, south through Ecuador and Peru, to Bolivia.
Identifying Featuresprominent white throat patches, bright yellow eyes, dark brown mottled plumage, small ear tufts, nocturnal
Description
This medium-sized owl is characterized by its cryptic dark brown plumage, bright yellow eyes, and distinctive white patches on its throat. It is a nocturnal predator, well-camouflaged within the montane cloud forests of the Andes where it resides.
