Megascops kennicottii
The Western Screech-owl is a small, compact owl with prominent ear tufts and large yellow eyes. Its plumage is mottled grey or brown, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The breast features fine vertical streaks and bars. Legs and feet are bristled with short gray feathers.
There is little difference between males and females in appearance, although females tend to be noticeably larger. Juveniles resemble adults but may have a fluffier, less defined plumage.
The owl's coloration can vary slightly based on its habitat, with more reddish-brown variants in some regions. The sharp, curved bill which is black in more southern populations and a lighter shade of gray in northern birds.
Length
19cm to 25cm
Wingspan
54cm to 61cm
Weight
120g to 305g
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Grey Brown
Secondary Colour
White
Beak Colour
Grey
Leg Colour
Grey
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Western Screech-owls inhabit a variety of wooded habitats, including deciduous and coniferous forests, riparian woodlands, and urban parks. They are found throughout western North America, from Alaska south to Mexico and east to the Rocky Mountains.
In the United States, they are common in western states such as California, Oregon, and Washington. These owls are non-migratory, maintaining year-round territories throughout their range.
Populations are particularly concentrated across Arizona’s mesquite landscapes. Breeding has also occurred in Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras.
Sea level to 2,200 meters
Temperate, Subtropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Western Screech-owl. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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