© Daniel S. Katz / CC BY 4.0Tropical Screech Owl
The Tropical Screech Owl is a small owl species native to Central and South America, typically measuring 21–23 cm in length. Distinctive ear-like tufts and bright yellow eyes give it an expressive face, and its plumage ranges from soft gray to rich reddish-brown, so no two birds look quite alike. Naturally quiet and mostly nocturnal, it nests in tree cavities and can become fiercely protective of its nest site, which calls for confident, experienced handling. Despite its compact, endearing appearance, it's considered a species for advanced keepers who already have experience with owls or other raptors.
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Tropical Screech Owl key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- 8-12 years
- Size
- 21-23cm (97-160g)
- Diet
- Insects and small vertebrates in the wild; frozen mice, day-old chicks and quail in captivity
- Cage
- Though small, it flies actively at night, so the aviary needs room for horizontal flight. Being a cavity nester, it should have a nest box and perches it can hide among.
- Temperament
- It becomes defensive in the nesting season, fluffing up in display and sometimes striking people with its claws, so nest-box checks should be timed and kept infrequent.
- Vocalization
- At night it gives a short purring trill followed by two accentuated notes, the female's higher pitched than the male's, plus a bubbling song in the courtship period.
- Notes
- Listed on CITES Appendix II, so import requires an export permit. Frozen mice, chicks and quail are thawed for feeding, and a steady supply of raptor food is a precondition for keeping the bird.
About Tropical Screech Owl
A small Central/South American owl measuring 21–23 cm, known for its yellow eyes, ear tufts, and highly variable plumage. Strong-willed by nature, it's best suited to experienced keepers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Tropical Screech Owl
1Best Suited to Experienced Keepers
The Tropical Screech Owl has a strong temperament and is generally considered a species for experienced keepers. If you haven't kept owls or other raptors before, it's best to seek guidance from an experienced keeper or consider an easier species first.
2Strong Nest-Guarding Instinct
In the wild, this owl nests in tree cavities, and some individuals show a strong instinct to defend their nest or roost. Take care when approaching a nest box and always watch the bird's body language first.
3Color Varies by Individual
Plumage ranges from gray-toned to reddish-brown within the same species. Both color forms are normal individual variation, not a sign of poor health.
4Nocturnal by Nature
This is a nocturnal bird that is mainly active at night. It tends to rest quietly during the day, so provide a calm environment and a routine that respects its natural day-night rhythm.
5Provide a Cavity-Like Nest Box
In the wild, this species roosts and nests in tree hollows. Offering a nest box to hide in along with a sturdy perch in the enclosure can help the bird feel more secure.
6Yellow Eyes and Ear Tufts
Its ear-like tufts and bright yellow eyes are a signature feature of this owl's face. For a quick daily health check, look at the brightness of the eyes, the condition of the ear tufts, and how well the bird is preening.
7Prepare Your Setup in Advance
Even though it's small, this species requires proper owl/raptor-keeping equipment and knowledge. Before bringing one home, make sure you have a sufficiently sized enclosure, a feeding plan, and temperature management sorted out, and consult an experienced keeper or specialist if needed.
Frequently asked questions about Tropical Screech Owl
- Q.Can a beginner keep this owl?
- A.The Tropical Screech Owl has a strong temperament and is generally considered a species for advanced keepers. If you have no experience with owls or raptors, it's best to get support from an experienced keeper or start with an easier species.
- Q.How big does it get as an adult?
- A.As an adult it measures about 21–23 cm and weighs roughly 97–160 g, making it a relatively small owl. That said, its strong temperament means small size shouldn't be mistaken for ease of handling.
- Q.What is its temperament generally like?
- A.This species nests in tree cavities, and some individuals show a strong instinct to defend their nest or roost. Temperament also varies between individuals, so it's important to watch each bird's behavior and adjust your approach accordingly.
- Q.What color variations does it come in?
- A.Plumage ranges from gray-toned to reddish-brown within the same species. Both are natural individual variations and don't indicate any difference in temperament or health.
- Q.Is it a CITES-listed species?
- A.Tropical Screech Owl is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.
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