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Revision as of 02:04, 30 October 2008
- Megascops trichopsis
Otus trichopsis
Identification
Small owl (body 15-18cm., wingspan 40-46cm.) Body is gray and brown with heavy streaking all over. Bill pale yellowish-green. Yellow eyes (with black pupils; the red pupils in the photo are a result of flash reflection). Small ear tufts.
Distribution
Arizona, Mexico, Honduras and Nicaragua.
Taxonomy
This and almost all Screech Owls in the Americas have previously been considered to belong in the same genus (Otus) as the European and Asian Scops-Owls, but a reassignment to Megascops have been accepted by among other authorities, the American Ornithologists' Union.
Habitat
Open woods near edges of forest in mountainous terrain from 1200m. - 1800m. (4000' - 6000') elevation.
Behaviour
The diet includes insects, spiders and caterpillars, and small vertebrates foraged between branches.
It uses a natural hollow for nesting. 3-4 eggs are laid and incubated by the female alone, during which time the male brings food. The female remains with the young and joins the nightly forage as they become older.
External Links
[1]Whiskered Screech Owl in Owlpages.com