Birds
Tropical Screech Owl
Megascops choliba
Perched quietly in a city park or garden after dusk, a tropical screech owl gives a soft, rolling trill, one of the most frequently encountered small owls anywhere across its vast South American range.
Overview
The tropical screech owl, Megascops choliba, is a Least Concern bird of prey found across forest edge, woodland, and urban green space throughout much of South America. Its small size, prominent ear tufts, and exceptional adaptability to human-modified habitat make it one of the most commonly encountered owls on the continent.
At home almost anywhere
Few owls handle the presence of people as comfortably as the tropical screech owl, which has adapted readily to gardens, parks, and city green spaces without losing its foothold in the natural forest edge and woodland that remains its core habitat.
Status
Least Concern, remaining abundant and widespread across suitable habitat throughout its extensive South American range.
Tropical Screech Owl: common questions
Why is the tropical screech owl considered so adaptable?
It thrives not only in natural forest edge and woodland but also in gardens, parks, and other urban green spaces, making it one of the most commonly encountered owls across much of South America.
What does the tropical screech owl sound like?
It produces a soft, rolling trill, typically heard at dusk and after dark rather than a sharp screech despite its common name.
Does the tropical screech owl always look the same?
No, it occurs in both grey and brown colour morphs across its range, adding to the natural variation seen between individuals.
What does the tropical screech owl eat?
It is a carnivore, hunting insects, small rodents, and small birds mainly during nighttime activity.