Adult
Description
Size: 8.5”
Plumage/Description: Male and female plumage similar. Cryptically colored to blend in with the surrounding habitat so they can roost undetected during the day. Some variation in plumage within the species; some specimens appear dark gray, others light gray, and some are brownish. Characterized by small size, yellow eyes, vertical streaking, and prominent ear-tufts.
Habitat: Oak/Chaparral, Pinyon/Juniper, Ponderosa/Coniferous, Riparian, Residential
Time of year: Year-round
Relative Abundance: Fairly common
Behavior: Western Screech-Owls are rarely encountered due to their nocturnal behavior. Perhaps more abundant than most people realize because they are seen so rarely. Difficult to find and see, best found during breeding season by listening for their call during the evening hours.
Diet: Insects, small mammals, birds, a variety of invertebrates
Similar species: Other owl species
Best Sites: Anywhere there is sufficient native habitat without a lot of human activity.
