Autillo Gorgiblanco
White-throated Screech-owl
Megascops albogularis
Song
White-throated Screech-owl
Appearance:
The White-throated Screech Owl is a small to medium-sized owl, measuring about 20 to 25 cm in length. It has a mottled brown and gray plumage, providing excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. The owl has prominent ear tufts and a distinctive white throat and underparts, which contrast with the darker upper body. Its eyes are large and yellow, adapted for night vision.
Habitat: The White-throated Screech Owl typically inhabits a range of forested environments, including: - Lowland tropical forests - Subtropical forests - Secondary growth and edges of forests - It can also be found in wooded areas, plantations, and occasionally urban gardens, as long as there is sufficient tree cover.
Behavior: As a primarily nocturnal species, the White-throated Screech Owl is most active at night, hunting for prey. Its diet mainly consists of small mammals, birds, and insects, which it hunts from a perch before swooping down.The owl is known for its varied calls, which include soft hoots and whistles. These vocalizations can be used for communication and territory defense.
Breeding: The breeding season typically varies depending on the region, but it generally occurs from late winter to early spring. Females lay 2 to 4 eggs in tree cavities or abandoned nests of other birds. Both parents participate in incubating the eggs, which usually take about 26 to 30 days to hatch. After hatching, the young are cared for by both parents until they fledge, which takes around 4 to 5 weeks.
Conservation Status: The White-throated Screech Owl is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Distribution
Andean Region: In the Andean region, this owl inhabits areas at various altitudes, particularly in the eastern and central Andes. Notable departments include Antioquia, Caldas, Risaralda, Quindío, and Cundinamarca. The species often resides in montane forests and the lower montane zones.
Taxonomy
The White-throated Screech-owl (Megascops albogularis)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Strigiformes
- Family: Strigidae
- Genus: Megascops
- Species: Megascops albogularis
Vocalization
Hooting Calls: The most characteristic vocalization is a series of soft, low-pitched hoots. This call is often described as a rhythmic "whooo, whooo" or "hoo-hoo." It can vary in intensity and pitch, depending on the context. A specific variant involves a pronounced two-note call, often rendered as "hoo-HOO." The first note is softer while the second note is more emphasized.
High-Pitched Whistles: In addition to hoots, the White-throated Screech Owl may produce higher-pitched whistles or trills. These sounds are often used in social interactions between mates or can serve as softer contact calls when communicating with fledglings.
Chirps or Clicks: Some variations may include short chirps or clicking sounds, particularly when the owl is alarmed or needs to convey a specific message quickly.
Distress Calls: In situations of threat or disturbance, the White-throated Screech Owl may emit sharp, quick calls designed to scare off intruders or signal distress.
Courtship Calls: During the breeding season, males may engage in more elaborate vocal displays. These calls may include a mix of their typical hoots interspersed with more rhythmic and spirited whistles to attract mates.
Communication: The different types of calls facilitate various forms of communication among individuals. For example, hoots serve as territorial announcements, while softer whistles or clicks may be used for close-range interactions.
Mating Displays: During courtship, calls become more varied and pronounced, as males showcase their vocal abilities to impress potential female mates.
Nestling Contact: When communicating with young, the calls tend to be softer and less threatening, allowing parents to gently guide or reassure their fledglings.
