Central American Pygmy-owl

Glaucidium griseiceps

Buhito Cabecigrís

Song

Central American Pygmy-owl

Appearance: The Central American Pygmy-owl is a small owl measuring around 14.5 cm in length and weighing about 45-60 g. It has a rounded head with yellow eyes, white or buff eyebrows, and rounded ear tufts. Its plumage is gray or brown with barring and streaking, providing camouflage in its forest habitat.

Habitat: The Central American Pygmy-owl is found in a variety of habitats, including tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and mangroves. They prefer dense vegetation with tall trees and understory for hunting and nesting.

Behavior: They are diurnal hunters, meaning they are active during the day and at dusk. They feed on insects, small birds, and mammals, spotted from perches within their territories. These owls are territorial and may vocalize or engage in displays to defend their territory.

Breeding: Breeding behavior involves courtship displays, vocalizations, and nest-building. They nest in tree cavities, abandoned woodpecker holes, or natural crevices, laying 2-4 eggs. Both male and female birds participate in incubating the eggs and caring for the young.

Conservation Status: The Central American Pygmy-owl is categorized as Least Concern by the IUCN.

Distribution

The Central American Pygmy-owl is found in tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and mangroves. Specifically, these owls can be found in areas with dense vegetation, tall trees, and understory cover where they can hunt and nest.

Taxonomy

The Central American Pygmy-owl (Glaucidium griseiceps)

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves (Birds)
Order: Strigiformes
Family: Strigidae
Genus: Glaucidium
Species: Glaucidium griseiceps

Vocalization

Call: The vocalization of this owl is a series of rhythmic whistles or trills that are repeated several times. This call is often described as a series of clear, melancholy whistles or toots that may vary in pitch and duration. The call is used for communication between individuals during territorial disputes or mating rituals.

Territorial Defense: Central American Pygmy-owls use their vocalizations to establish and defend their territories. They may vocalize to announce their presence, warn off potential intruders, or communicate with neighboring individuals. The intensity and frequency of vocalizations can indicate the owl's territorial boundaries.

Courtship: During the mating season, male and female Central American Pygmy-owls engage in courtship rituals that involve vocal displays. Males may use their calls to attract females and demonstrate their fitness as potential mates. Courtship vocalizations can be softer and more melodious compared to territorial calls.

Communication: Apart from territorial defense and courtship, Central American Pygmy-owls use vocalizations for general communication within their species. They may use different calls to convey information about food availability, warn of potential threats, or coordinate activities with other owls.