Autillo Selvático
Andean Pygmy-owl
Glaucidium jardinii
Song
Andean Pygmy-owl
Appearance: The Andean Pygmy-Owl is a small owl species with a distinctive appearance. It has a relatively round head with prominent white eyebrows and yellow eyes. The plumage of the owl is mottled brown and white, providing excellent camouflage in its forested habitats. It typically measures around 15-17 cm in length with a wingspan of about 35-40 cm.
Habitat: The Andean Pygmy-Owl is primarily found in montane forests and cloud forests of the Andes mountain range. It tends to inhabit dense vegetation, including forest edges, secondary growth, and shrubby areas at higher elevations. This owl species prefers cool, moist environments with a mix of trees and vegetation that provide suitable cover for hunting and nesting.
Behavior: The Andean Pygmy-Owl is a diurnal predator, actively hunting during the day for small prey such as insects, small mammals, and birds. It is known for its agile flight and stealthy hunting techniques, relying on its sharp talons and keen eyesight to capture prey. These owls are solitary or found in pairs, establishing territories within their preferred habitat and defending them through vocalizations and displays.
Breeding: Breeding season for the Andean Pygmy-Owl in Colombia typically occurs from around February to May. The owls construct nests in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, lining them with feathers or other soft materials. The female lays a clutch of about 2-3 eggs, which she incubates while the male provides food and protection. Both parents participate in caring for the young owlets, feeding them and teaching them essential hunting and survival skills.
Conservation Status: The Andean Pygmy-Owl is not currently listed as a species of conservation concern in Colombia.
Distribution
Central Andes: The Andean Pygmy-Owl is commonly found in the central part of the Colombian Andes, including regions such as Antioquia, Caldas, Quindio, Risaralda, Tolima, and Valle del Cauca. This area encompasses diverse mountain habitats where the owl thrives, such as cloud forests and montane forests.
Eastern Andes: Within the Colombian Andes, the Andean Pygmy-Owl is also present in the eastern part of the range, covering regions like Boyaca, Cundinamarca, and Santander. These regions offer suitable habitat for the owl, with varying elevations and forest types that support its hunting and nesting activities.
Southern Andes: In the southern regions of the Colombian Andes, including areas like Huila and Nariño, the Andean Pygmy-Owl can be found in mountainous terrain and forests. These regions provide critical habitats for the owl to forage, breed, and establish territories.
Northern Andes: The Andean Pygmy-Owl may also occur in the northern part of the Andes range within Colombia, in regions such as Norte de Santander and Cesar. Here, the owl can be observed in suitable forested areas and high-altitude environments that meet its habitat requirements.
Western Andes: Additionally, the Andean Pygmy-Owl's distribution extends into regions along the western flank of the Colombian Andes, including Choco and Valle del Cauca. These areas offer a mix of forest types and elevations where the owl can be found, contributing to its overall range in the country.
Taxonomy
The Andean Pygmy-owl (Glaucidium jardinii)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Strigiformes
- Family: Strigidae
- Genus: Glaucidium
- Species: Glaucidium jardinii
Vocalization
Call Types: The Andean Pygmy-Owl produces a variety of vocalizations, including hoots, whistles, trills, and chattering sounds. These calls can vary in pitch, duration, and intensity depending on the owl's purpose or mood.
Territorial Calls: One of the primary functions of the Andean Pygmy-Owl's vocalizations is to demarcate and defend its territory. The owl may emit territorial hoots or series of calls to signal its presence and warn off potential intruders.
Mating Calls: During the breeding season, male Andean Pygmy-Owls may engage in elaborate vocal displays to attract females. These calls can be more melodious or rhythmic than their typical territorial calls and may signal readiness to mate.
Contact Calls: Andean Pygmy-Owls also use contact calls to communicate with their mates or offspring. These softer, less intense calls help maintain contact within a pair or family group, especially during hunting or nesting activities.
Alarm Calls: When disturbed or threatened, Andean Pygmy-Owls may emit sharp, high-pitched alarm calls to alert nearby individuals about potential dangers. These calls serve as a warning signal and can trigger defensive behaviors.Duetting: In some cases, Andean Pygmy-Owls engage in duetting, where both members of a pair vocalize together in a coordinated manner.
Duetting can strengthen pair bonds, reinforce territorial boundaries, and enhance communication between mates.
