Owls are amazing birds of prey that have fascinated humans for centuries. Their large eyes, rounded heads, and silent flight make them seem almost mythical. Of the many different owl species, one of the most widespread in North America is the screech owl.
The screech owl is a small to medium sized owl, ranging from 6 to 11 inches in length with a 16 to 24 inch wingspan. They get their name from their eerie, shivering call that has been described as a “bouncing ball” or a horse’s whinny. This nocturnal bird has several interesting facts and adaptations that make it a successful predator.
Fact 1: Screech owls come in two color morphs
Unlike many other owl species which come in only one color, the screech owl is unique in having two distinct color variations or “morphs.” One morph is gray-brown with streaking and bars, while the other is a rusty red color. The gray morph is more common in the eastern parts of North America, while the red morph is more prevalent in the west.
The two morphs occupy the exact same territory and habitat, and even nest together. Interestingly, some research indicates the gray morphs are more aggressive and dominant over the red ones. The reason for the different color variations is not fully understood, but likely provides some selective advantage through camouflage. The reddish brown plumage blends in well with the bark of trees and surrounding vegetation in western regions, while the gray morph matches better with tree bark in the eastern forests.
Differences between gray and red morphs
Here is a table comparing some of the key differences between the two color morphs of screech owls:
| Feature | Gray Morph | Red Morph |
|---|---|---|
| Plumage color | Gray with brown streaks | Rusty reddish-brown |
| Beak color | Dark gray | Dark gray |
| Range | Mainly eastern North America | Mainly western North America |
| Dominance | Tends to be more aggressive and dominant | Tends to be less aggressive |
As the table shows, while the plumage differs, the two screech owl morphs are otherwise identical in dimensions, features,diet, and habits. Only the colors sets them apart!
Fact 2: Screech owls are highly adaptable
Another interesting fact about screech owls is their ability to thrive in a wide variety of habitats. Unlike owls such as the great horned owl that prefer undisturbed natural areas, screech owls readily adapt to living in suburban neighborhoods, city parks, and other urban areas.
Screech owls nest in tree cavities but will also readily take over artificial nest boxes put up by people. This adaptability allows them to take advantage of rodent prey around human homes and buildings.
Their opportunistic hunting style also contributes to their adaptability. While they prefer mice, voles, shrews, and other small mammals, screech owls will snatch up any easy meal they can find. Bats, small birds, snakes, frogs, insects, crayfish and even earthworms are all on the menu. This varied diet allows screech owls to survive in a wide range of habitats.
Ideal habitats
Here are some of the habitats and nesting areas favored by screech owls:
- Woodlands with open areas for hunting
- Forest edges and hedgerows
- Parks and yards with large trees
- Cavities in trees, especially old woodpecker holes
- Nest boxes put up by people
- Cavities and crevices in human structures such as barns, sheds, bridges, and houses
Their camouflage plumage and nocturnal habits keep them safely hidden during the day. The owl’s amazing hearing allows it to precisely locate prey at night. As long as adequate food, roost sites, and nesting spots are available, screech owls are happy to share the neighborhood!
Fact 3: Screech owls are feisty defenders
Don’t let their small size fool you – screech owls are ferocious defenders of their territory and nests. When threatened, they adopt an aggressive posture with wings spread out and feathers erected to appear as large and intimidating as possible.
Screech owls have a range of defensive mechanisms to deter predators:
- Mobbing – They will swoop and dive at intruders while snapping their beaks and calling loudly.
- Bluff attacks – Using their talons, they will make threatening passes near an enemy’s head.
- Playing dead – If captured, screech owls will go limp and feign death until the predator loses interest.
- Vocalizations – From their signature bouncing ball shriek to bill snapping to ominous hoots, the sounds screech owls make are meant to scare away potential threats.
- Camouflage – Their disruptive plumage patterns help them blend into trees and avoid detection.
Interestingly, when defending their young, a pair of screech owls will fight off much larger animals including hawks, crows, raccoons, cats, and even humans! Despite being less than 10 inches tall, screech owls have a tenacious spirit and the attitude of a much bigger raptor when it comes to protecting their turf.
Common predators of screech owls
Here are some of the main predators and threats faced by screech owls:
| Predator | How screech owls defend themselves |
|---|---|
| Great horned owls | Mobbing attacks, camouflage |
| Hawks | Bluffing dives, playing dead |
| Crows | Loud vocalizations |
| Raccoons | Aggressive posture, talon strikes |
| Domestic cats | Camouflage, feigning death |
| Humans | Mobbing, bluffing attacks |
Never underestimate the little screech owl! They have a huge array of defensive tactics to match their ferocious attitude when confronted by predators and other threats.
Conclusion
The wide-ranging screech owl is well equipped for survival with its cryptic color variations, adaptable nature, and fierce defenses. These three facts show some of the cool and unique traits that make screech owls such interesting birds:
- Screech owls come in two distinct color morphs – gray and red – likely as camouflage in different regions.
- Screech owls are highly adaptable to a wide range of habitats from forests to city parks to suburban neighborhoods.
- Despite their small size, screech owls are feisty defenders of their nests and will mob animals as large as humans!
The next time you hear an eerie screeching call in the night, you’ll know it’s just the vocalizations of one of these fierce little raptors! Screech owls are fascinating birds perfectly equipped for the nighttime world of predators and prey.
