Autillo Canela
Cinnamon Screech-owl
Megascops petersoni
Song
Cinnamon Screech-owl
Appearance: The Cinnamon Screech-owl is medium-sized, typically measuring about 22-25 cm in length. It has a warm cinnamon-brown plumage, which helps it blend seamlessly into its forested habitat. The feathers often have intricate patterns, including streaks and spots. It has large, round eyes which are typically yellow, providing excellent night vision. Its face is somewhat round and features ear tufts that can be raised or lowered depending on its mood.
Habitat: The Cinnamon Screech Owl is primarily found in the Andean forests of Colombia. It prefers dense, humid montane forests but can also inhabit adjacent secondary growth and wooded areas. It is usually found at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 meters.
Behavior: Like many owls, it is primarily nocturnal, being most active at night when it hunts. Its diet consists mainly of small mammals, birds, and insects. It has a series of distinct, haunting calls that can be heard at night, which are used for communication and establishing territory.
Breeding: The Cinnamon Screech Owl typically nests in tree cavities or sometimes in abandoned nests of other birds. The female usually lays 2-4 eggs, which are incubated for about 28 days before hatching. The young owls fledge around 30 days after hatching and are dependent on their parents for some time after.
Conservation Status: The Cinnamon Screech Owl is currently listed as "Least Concern" by the IUCN Red List.
Distribution
Central Andes: The department of Antioquia is part of this region, where suitable altitudes and forested areas support populations of the Cinnamon Screech Owl.
Eastern Andes: Areas such as Boyacá and parts of Cundinamarca fall within this region. Here, the owl is adapted to montane forests and less disturbed areas.
Taxonomy
The Cinnamon Screech-owl (Megascops petersoni)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Strigiformes
- Family: Strigidae
- Genus: Megascops
- Species: Megascops petersoni
Vocalization
Typical Calls: The Cinnamon Screech Owl produces a series of low, hooting sounds that can be described as **“ku-wit” or “hoo” calls**. These calls often occur in sequences and vary in pitch and duration, creating a haunting and melodious effect.
Variation: The calls can differ between individual owls, with males and females producing slightly different sounds. Males tend to have deeper, resonant calls, while females may have higher-pitched tones.
Territorial Calls: Males call to defend their territory, signaling to other males that an area is occupied. These calls help to establish boundaries and minimize potential conflicts over territory.
Mating Calls: During the breeding season, both males and females engage in vocalizations to attract mates and strengthen pair bonds. The exchanges between potential mates can include duets that signify readiness to breed.
Communication with Chicks: Soft, low calls are often used by parents to communicate with their young owls, especially when they are in the nest or nearby, ensuring that the chicks remain in the safe vicinity.
