Long-tufted Screech Owl

Overview

The long-tufted screech owl (Megascops sanctaecatarinae) is a species of typical owl found in Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. It is a fairly large and bulky member of its genus, recognised by its prominent ear tufts and strong feet. The species is currently classified as Least Concern, though its population is believed to be decreasing due to habitat loss.

Identification

• Length of 25 to 28 cm, with males weighing 155–194 g and females 174–211 g.
• Predominantly brown colour morph featuring dark brown upperparts with pale, coarse vermiculation and irregular bars, streaks, and vermiculation on the underparts.
• Pale yellow to orange-yellow eyes, greenish gray bill, and pale grayish brown feet.
• Very prominent 'ear' tufts and a brown facial disc with a darker border.

Habitat

Found in the southeastern Brazilian states of Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul, northeastern Argentina's Misiones Province, and adjoining northern Uruguay. It inhabits open and semi-open landscapes such as sparse woodland, pastures with trees, forest edges, secondary forest, and woodlots near villages, mainly at elevations between 300 and 1,000 m.

Diet

Primarily nocturnal, the owl hunts by dropping from a perch onto prey. Its diet consists of arthropods and small vertebrates, including rodents, birds, amphibians, and fish.

Did you know?

The female's secondary song is described as loud, hoarse, and extraordinary, resembling 'bababa...', making it unique among screech owls.