Balsas Screech Owl

Overview

The Balsas screech owl (Megascops seductus) is a species of owl in the family Strigidae that is endemic to interior southwestern Mexico. It is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though its population is suspected to be in decline due to habitat loss.

Identification

• One of the larger members of the genus Megascops, measuring 24 to 27 cm in length and weighing 150 to 174 g.
• Features a grayish brown facial disc with brownish markings and a darker border, along with short 'ear' tufts.
• Crown and upperparts are grayish brown with darker streaks and a pinkish blush; the closed wing displays two bands of whitish spots.
• Emits a territorial song described as a loud series of gruff notes accelerating to a trill with a 'bouncing-ball' rhythm.

Habitat

This species inhabits arid open and semi-open areas, including deciduous woodland with cactus, thorn forest, secondary forest, and tropical scrublands. Its range is centered on the valley of the Balsas River, extending from southern Jalisco southeast into central Guerrero at elevations between 600 and 1,500 m.

Diet

The Balsas screech owl is nocturnal and its diet consists of insects, other arthropods, and small vertebrates, although specific hunting methods have not yet been described.

Did you know?

The bird's territorial call is characterised by a 'bouncing-ball' rhythm, producing a sequence that sounds like 'book-book-bokbokbobobobrrrrr'.