Eastern Screech-Owl
Megascops asio
Aves › Strigiformes › Strigidae › Megascops
Conservation status: least_concern
This stocky, short-tailed owl is mid-sized for its kind and lives in most types of woodland habitats. It is relatively adaptable to urban and developed areas compared to other owls.
How To Identify
This owl is a moderately sized forest dweller, typically exhibiting cryptic coloration of mottled browns and grays. Its plumage features irregular streaking that helps it camouflage within woodland backgrounds, often accentuated by noticeable ear tufts or markings.
Habitat
Eastern Screech-Owls inhabit deciduous and mixed forests, woodlots, parks, and gardens throughout eastern North America, showing remarkable adaptability to suburban and urban environments.
Behaviour
These small owls are cavity nesters that readily adopt nest boxes and will stay motionless with eyes closed when threatened, relying on their cryptic gray or rufous plumage to blend in with tree bark.
Native Range
The Eastern Screech-Owl is native to Eastern North America, from Mexico to Canada.
Did You Know?
Despite their name, Eastern Screech-Owls don't actually screech—instead they produce an eerie, descending whinny that sounds more like a tremolo whistle. This call can be so ventriloquial that it's nearly impossible to pinpoint the owl's location.
Create a free account to log your sightings of the Eastern Screech-Owl, see where it has been recorded near you and build your Wild List.
Privacy · Terms · Impressum · Credits · About the beta