Eastern Screech-Owl (Megascops asio)
The Eastern Screech-Owl (Megascops asio) is a small, adaptable owl species commonly found in the forests of North America, particularly around Montreal. Known for its distinctive trilling call, this owl thrives in diverse habitats, including woodlands, suburban areas, and city parks, showcasing remarkable adaptability to human-altered landscapes.
๐ซ๐ท | Petit-duc Maculรฉ |
๐ฉ๐ช | Ost-Kreischeule |
๐ฒ๐ฝ | Autillo yanqui |
Taxonomy | |
Order | Strigiformes |
Family | Strigidae |
How to Identify
This species exists in two distinct color morphs: a grey variant and a reddish variant. Both morphs are commonly observed in the Montreal area. Identification of this species, akin to larger owls, can be achieved by examining the shape of the ears and the line extending from the eye to the ear.
Click on photo to enlarge.
Characteristics
Length | 16-25cm |
Weight | 121-244g |
Wingspan | 46-61cm |
Clutch Size | 4-5 eggs |
Incubation | 26-30 days |
Fledging | 28-32 days |
Sexual Maturity | 1 year |
Source | Wikipedia |
Videos
Videos are hosted on YouTube. Click on a thumbnail to watch it.
Where and When to Spot
The Eastern Screech-Owl is most easily observed during the winter months. The absence of foliage during this season enhances visibility, and the owl tends to rest in consistent locations. Familiarity with these potential resting sites significantly aids in locating the owl.
Observation Records by Park and Season
Location | Spring | Summer | Autumn | Winter |
---|---|---|---|---|
Parc Angrignon | x | x | - | x |
Parc Michel-Chartrand | x | - | - | x |
"x" indicates the species was observed, while "-" indicates no observation. Lack of observation doesn't necessarily imply that the species is absent. Data is derived from our park visit journals.
Questions & Answers
Delve deeper into distribution, habitat, behavior, and ecological role of the Eastern Screech-Owl (Megascops asio). Click on a question to uncover the answer.
Has the Eastern Screech-Owl a world-wide distribution?
No, the Eastern Screech-Owl and its cousin, the Western Screech-Owl, another species of the genus Screech-Owl, are primarily found across various parts of Canada, the United States, and Mexico. These species are not naturally found in Europe, Africa, Asia, or Australia. They are specifically adapted to the ecological niches of the Americas.
Is the Eastern Screech-Owl a migratory bird?
No, this species is a year-round resident throughout its range. These owls are highly territorial and tend to stay in the same area throughout their lives, adapting well to various habitats including woodlands, suburban areas, and city parks.
Is the Eastern Screech-Owl an endangered species?
No, it is listed as a species of 'Least Concern.' While not endangered, the Eastern Screech-Owl faces threats from habitat loss and fragmentation due to urbanization and deforestation. However, it has shown a notable ability to adapt to suburban and urban environments.
Is the Eastern Screech-Owl the smallest owl?
No, while the Eastern Screech-Owl is relatively small, there are several owl species that are smaller. The title of the smallest owl typically goes to the Elf Owl, found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. The Eastern Screech-Owl typically measures about 16-25 cm in length and has a wingspan of about 46-61 cm, while the Elf Owl measures about 12.5-14.5 cm in length and has a wingspan of about 27 cm.
Does the Eastern Screech-Owl have any predators?
Yes, this bird species has several natural predators. Despite their ability to blend into their surroundings and their nocturnal habits, they can fall prey to larger animals. Some of their predators include larger owls, hawks, snakes, and mammals such as raccoons, squirrels, and domestic cats.
Is the Eastern Screech-Owl mostly active at night?
Yes, this species is primarily nocturnal. However, it is not exclusively active at night. There are instances where these owls may be active during dawn and dusk, and occasionally even during the day if disturbed or in search of food. Their excellent night vision and keen hearing make them well-adapted for nighttime hunting.
Does the Eastern Screech-Owl hunt by sound?
Yes, this bird species relies heavily on sound to hunt. Like many other owl species, it has highly developed hearing with specialized adaptations. The asymmetrical ear placement allows for precise sound localization by detecting differences in the time sound reaches each ear. The facial disc, a circular arrangement of feathers around the eyes, helps funnel sound to their ears and enhances sensitivity. Their feathers are adapted for silent flight, reducing noise when they fly.
Does the Eastern Screech-Owl eat mostly mice?
No, their diet is quite diverse and includes a wide range of prey items. Some of the primary components of their diet are small mammals, including mice, voles, shrews, and small bats; small birds; amphibians; reptiles; insects; and other invertebrates. These opportunistic feeding habits allow them to adapt to different environments and seasons.
Does the Eastern Screech-Owl exhibit sexual dimorphism?
Yes, this bird species exhibits a degree of sexual dimorphism, though it is relatively subtle compared to some other bird species and can be difficult to spot in the field. Females are generally larger than males. While both sexes can produce similar calls, there are slight differences in the pitch and frequency of their vocalizations, with males typically having a slightly lower pitch than females.
Are both parents of Eastern Screech-Owl involved in parenting?
Yes, both the male and female may be involved in selecting a suitable nesting site, often in tree cavities, abandoned woodpecker holes, or nest boxes. However, only the female handles the incubation of the eggs. The male is responsible for hunting and bringing food to the female while she incubates the eggs and broods the young chicks. After the eggs hatch, the female stays with the chicks to keep them warm and protect them, while the male continues to bring food to the nest.
Is the Eastern Screech-Owl well studied in the field of animal behavior?
Yes, this bird species has been reasonably well studied in the field of animal behavior, particularly regarding its breeding biology, nesting habits, feeding ecology, and vocalizations. Much of the foundational knowledge about Eastern Screech-Owls has been established through field observations and studies conducted by ornithologists and researchers.
Is the Eastern Screech-Owl easy to spot?
No, spotting an Eastern Screech-Owl can be challenging for several reasons. They are primarily active at night, and during the day, their plumage coloration and pattern provide excellent camouflage against tree bark. To successfully spot an Eastern Screech-Owl, look near tree cavities used as nesting sites. The entrance to these cavities is usually facing south and is typically at least 5 meters above the ground.