Screech Owl

"Screech owl" refers to roughly 20 small owl species in the genus Megascops, found throughout North, Central, and South America. The most familiar in North America are the Eastern Screech-Owl (Megascops asio) and Western Screech-Owl (Megascops kennicottii).

These are small, stocky owls with prominent ear tufts and intricately patterned, bark-like grey or reddish-brown (rufous) plumage that provides excellent camouflage against tree trunks. Their eyes are bright yellow.

Key Field Marks

• Small, stocky size
• Obvious ear tufts, which can be raised or flattened
• Intricately mottled and streaked plumage in grey or rufous color morphs
• Bright yellow eyes

Similar Species

• Long-eared Owl — much larger, with longer ear tufts and different habitat preferences
• Northern Saw-whet Owl — lacks ear tufts entirely, distinguishing it from any screech-owl

Range

Species in the genus occur throughout North, Central, and South America; the Eastern Screech-Owl is widespread across the eastern and central United States.

Habitat

Woodlands, forest edges, parks, and suburban areas with mature trees, where they nest in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes and readily use nest boxes.

Movements

Largely non-migratory and resident year-round.

Feeding

Strictly nocturnal, roosting by day in tree cavities or dense foliage where camouflage makes it very hard to spot. Diet is broad and opportunistic, including large insects, small mammals, birds, amphibians, and earthworms.

Voice

Despite the name, screech-owls do not actually screech. Calls typically include a descending, whinnying tremolo and a soft, monotone trill.

Nesting and Breeding

Cavity nesters, using natural tree hollows or old woodpecker holes; typically lay three to five eggs.