Búho Carinegro
Black and White Owl
Ciccaba nigrolineata
Song
Black and White Owl
Appearance: The Black and White Owl is characterized by its striking coloration and patterns:Its plumage is primarily grayish or brown with distinct black and white markings. It has white spots and streaks across its body, creating a mottled appearance that helps with camouflage. The owl has a rounded head with a prominent facial disc bordered by darker feathers and large yellow eyes that give it a keen visual acuity. It is a medium-sized owl.
Habitat: The Black and White Owl inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, especially in regions with dense vegetation. It prefers lowland forests, including moist, evergreen tropical rainforests, secondary growth areas, and forest edges. The species is primarily found in Central and South America, particularly in countries like Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Behavior: This owl is primarily active at night and is known for its stealthy hunting capabilities. It mainly preys on small mammals, birds, and insects, utilizing its excellent camouflage to ambush prey. The Black and White Owl produces a series of hoots, which are often used for territorial claims and communication between mates.
Breeding: The breeding season generally coincides with periods of increased food availability, often during the rainy season.The female typically lays 2 to 4 eggs in a tree cavity or among foliage. Both parents participate in incubating the eggs. The incubation period lasts about 30 days, and the owlets fledge approximately 4 to 5 weeks after hatching. Parental care continues post-fledging until the young are more independent. ####
Conservation Status: The Black and White Owl is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Distribution
Andean Region: Antioquia: Found in various mountainous areas and forests, especially in the central part of this department. Caldas: Commonly located in the lush, humid forests of this department. Risaralda: Inhabits both lowland and highland forests, especially within areas of the Coffee Cultural Landscape. Quindío: Present in the forests within the Coffee Triangle, preferring dense vegetation.
Caribbean Region: Magdalena: The owl is occasionally found in forested areas, although it is less common compared to the Andean region.
Pacific Region: Chocó: Commonly found along the Pacific coast where the dense rainforests with high humidity are prevalent. This region features significant biodiversity and provides ideal habitats for the Black and White Owl.
Taxonomy
The Black and White Owl (Ciccaba nigrolineata)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Strigiformes
- Family: Strigidae
- Genus: Ciccaba
- Species: Ciccaba nigrolineata
Vocalization
Mating Calls: During the breeding season, males often produce a series of long, drawn-out hoots that can vary in pitch. The calls typically have a soft yet resonant quality to attract females and establish a bond between mates. These calls may consist of repetitive hoots, which can be heard over considerable distances in their forested habitats.
Territorial Calls: Males emit deep, rhythmic hoots to establish their territory. These calls often sound like a “whoo-whooooo” pattern, with some variation in tone and duration. Territorial calls are important for deterring rival owls and affirming the presence of the calling individual within a specific area.
Alarm Calls: When threatened or agitated, the Black and White Owl may produce sharper, more abrupt calls as a warning signal. These alarm calls serve to alert nearby owls or potential threats about danger.
