Western Screech-owl
Least ConcernMegascops kennicottii
Visual Identification
Western Screech-owl
Appearance
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.
Size
Length
19cm to 25cm
Wingspan
54cm to 61cm
Weight
120g to 305g
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Grey Brown
Secondary Colour
White
Beak Colour
Grey
Leg Colour
Grey
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
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.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 2,200 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subtropical
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Western Screech-owls are mainly an insectivorous species. However, they are opportunistic predators and will feed on anything available.
They primarily feed on small mammals such as mice, voles, and shrews but also consume insects, small birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Scorpions, earthworms, and spiders are also caught. Insect prey includes crickets, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. During winter, they may focus more on rodents, while insects become a more significant part of their diet in warmer months.
Western Screech-owls rely on both sight and sound to hunt, catching prey after swooping from branch perches in trees.
Behaviour
Western Screech-owls are primarily nocturnal, roosting in tree cavities or dense foliage during the day. They hunt from perches, swooping down to catch prey.
These owls are highly territorial and will vigorously defend their nesting areas, often returning to the same site year after year.
Vocalisation
Despite its name, the Western screech-owl doesn’t actually screech, instead making a series of accelerating hoots with an intensifying pace.
The most distinctive call is a series of short, whistled hoots that accelerate in tempo, often described as a "bouncing ball" sound. It typically sounds like "pew pew pew pew pew-pew-pew."
They also produce various trills, barks, and screeches, particularly when alarmed or defending territory.
Nesting & Breeding
Western Screech-owls form monogamous pairs and begin breeding in late winter or early spring. Males attract females with a series of soft, rhythmic hoots and by presenting potential nest sites.
Nests are typically located in tree cavities, often those excavated by woodpeckers. The female lays 2-5 smooth white, round eggs directly on the bottom of the cavity without adding nesting material.
Incubation lasts about 26 days, solely by the female. The male provides food during this time. Young owls fledge at about 28-35 days old but remain dependent on their parents for several weeks.
Lifespan
The Western Screech-owl typically lives for 2 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 13 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While the Western Screech-owl is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces threats from habitat loss due to urban development and logging.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving mature forests and maintaining suitable nesting cavities. In some areas, nest box programs have been implemented to support breeding populations.
Birdwatching Tips
- Listen for their distinctive bouncing ball or trilling call at night
- Look for them perched near tree trunks or in cavities during the day
- Check for whitewash and pellets below potential roosting sites
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Western Screech Owl
Family:
StrigidaePredators
Main predators include larger owls such as Great Horned Owls, as well as hawks, raccoons, and domestic cats in urban areas.
Did You Know?
- Western Screech-owls can turn their heads up to 270 degrees.
- They have asymmetrical ear openings, which helps them pinpoint prey by sound.
- Some individuals have a reddish-brown plumage variant called the "rufous morph."
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FAQs
What color are Western screech owls?
Western screech owls are generally a mottled mixture of dark gray, brown, and white. Coloring varies across their range, with northwestern birds having a reddish wash, while the plumage of those further inland and to the south features more gray tones. They have bright yellow eyes.
Do Western screech owls come out during the day?
Although a strictly nocturnal species, during the breeding season western screech-owls (particularly males) will head out to hunt during daylight if the feeding demands of hungry young owlets mean they may need to seek additional prey during the day.
Do Western screech owls eat squirrels?
Western screech owls do eat squirrels although they are not among their primary prey. Normally they hunt smaller mammals, including voles, shrews and mice. However, if the opportunity arises to catch a squirrel, then may well give it their best shot.
How do you attract Western screech owls?
Tall trees with existing cavities for nesting offer western screech-owls a ready-made nesting spot. Mounting artificial nest boxes and adding wood chips as a lining may also tempt them to set up a home in your yard.
The best way to attract owls is to provide their natural habitat, with access to fresh water, tree cover, and the opportunity to catch prey, including plants that will encourage different insect species.
Similar Birds
References
- 2
website: BirdLife International. 2016. Megascops kennicottii. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T22688747A93207555.
View source - 1 4
report, 2007: Breeding Bird Survey and/or Christmas Bird Count: Butcher and Niven
- 3
website, 2022: Partners in Flight
View source