A small (8–9 in) owl with conspicuous ear tufts, found in rufous (red) and gray color morphs. Common but rarely seen — neighbors of countless eastern households without their knowledge.

Also called: Screech Owl

Native status: Native; widespread

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 16–25 cm (6.3–9.8 in); wingspan 46–61 cm
Weight121–244 g (4.3–8.6 oz); females larger
LifespanWild typically 8 years; oldest documented 14
OrderStrigiformes
FamilyStrigidae

§ Encyclopedia

The eastern screech owl or eastern screech-owl is a stocky, short-tailed owl that is relatively common in Eastern North America, from Mexico to Canada. Mid-sized for a screech owl, the species resides in most types of woodland habitats across its range, and is relatively adaptable to urban and developed areas compared to other owls. Although it often lives in close proximity to humans, the eastern screech owl frequently avoids detection due to its strictly nocturnal habits.

Source: Wikipedia — Eastern screech owl Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Small owl with prominent ear tufts; rufous or gray color phases both occur. Yellow eyes.

Similar species. Western Screech-Owl (very similar; different range and song). Northern Saw-whet Owl (smaller, no tufts).

Voice. Soft tremulous whinny; descending trill. Very different from the bird's name.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Insects, small mammals, small birds, reptiles, occasionally crayfish.

Behavior. Common but rarely seen. Nests in tree cavities — especially old woodpecker holes. Hunts at dusk and through the night.

§ Range

Eastern North America

§ Habitat

Mixed deciduous forests, suburban yards with mature trees

§ Threats

Habitat fragmentation, rodenticide poisoning, vehicle strikes.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the eastern screech-owl is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Install owl-sized nest boxes. Skip rodenticides. Maintain mature trees in yards.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab — All About Birds
  • Owl Research Institute
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2017