Eastern Screech-Owl
Megascops asio
The Eastern Screech-Owl is a small nocturnal raptor that lives in Florida woodlands, parks, and mature neighborhoods.
The Eastern Screech-Owl is a small nocturnal raptor that lives in Florida woodlands, parks, and mature neighborhoods.
A compact owl with prominent ear tufts, yellow eyes, a short tail, and intricate gray or reddish-brown barklike plumage. Its rounded head and stocky body are often visible at cavity entrances.
Roosts quietly in cavities by day and hunts from low perches at night. It uses natural tree holes, old woodpecker cavities, and properly sized nest boxes.
Not dangerous when left alone. Do not approach nest cavities or handle grounded owls. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for an injured bird.
Protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Owls, feathers, nests, eggs, and young must not be possessed or disturbed without authorization.
Habitat:
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Residential Areas
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
Large insects, mice, small rats, lizards, frogs, crayfish, small snakes, and occasionally small birds.
Behavior:
Roosts quietly in cavities by day and hunts from low perches at night. It uses natural tree holes, old woodpecker cavities, and properly sized nest boxes.
Nighttime, Dusk, Dawn
Active Times:
Best time to see:
At dusk near wooded yards or during daylight at a known cavity entrance
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Least Concern
Safety Level:
Observe From a Distance
Safety Information:
Not dangerous when left alone. Do not approach nest cavities or handle grounded owls. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for an injured bird.
Benefits to Property:
Controls rodents, large insects, and other small prey and adds nesting value to mature trees and well-placed owl boxes.
Property Concerns:
Tree removal and excessive nighttime lighting reduce nesting and hunting habitat. Outdoor cats threaten young owls.
Fun Fact:
Its common call is a descending whinny or trembling trill rather than a loud screech.
Wildlife Laws:
Protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Owls, feathers, nests, eggs, and young must not be possessed or disturbed without authorization.
Identification:
A compact owl with prominent ear tufts, yellow eyes, a short tail, and intricate gray or reddish-brown barklike plumage. Its rounded head and stocky body are often visible at cavity entrances.