Screech owls are fascinating nocturnal birds of prey that are found throughout much of North and Central America. As raptors, screech owls have very specific dietary requirements in order to remain healthy in captivity. Their diet in the wild consists mainly of insects, small mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. When caring for a pet or rehabilitating a wild screech owl, it is important to recreate their natural diet as closely as possible.
Insects and Invertebrates
Insects and other invertebrates make up a large part of the natural diet of screech owls. Crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and cockroaches are excellent feeder insects to offer captive screech owls. These can be purchased live or frozen from pet stores or online retailers who supply feeder insects. When feeding live insects, only provide enough that the owl will eat right away to prevent the insects from escaping and pestering the owl. Canned or freeze-dried insects are another option that provide convenience without having to keep live insects on hand.
In addition to terrestrial insects, screech owls also naturally prey on aquatic invertebrates such as crawfish, crabs, and shrimp. These can occasionally be offered for variety. Pre-killed invertebrates are preferable to prevent injury from pincers or claws. Only feed seafood that is fresh or properly frozen to prevent illness.
How Much Insect Matter to Feed
Insects and invertebrates should make up around 20-30% of the total diet for an adult screech owl. For young owlets, this proportion may be higher at first, up to 50% as they grow and require ample protein. The exact amount to feed will depend on the owl’s weight and activity level. A good starting amount is 2-3 insects per ounce of the owl’s body weight 2-3 times per day. Then adjust amounts based on appetite and weight maintenance.
Small Mammals and Birds
An important part of a screech owl’s natural diet is small mammals such as mice, voles, shrews, and bats. Birds are also frequent prey for wild screech owls. Some good options for captive owls include feeder mice, rats, chicks, quail eggs, and day-old hatchling birds. Only purchase feeder animals from reputable suppliers to prevent introduction of parasites and illnesses.
For an adult screech owl, aim to feed 1-2 mice or other appropriately-sized rodents 2-3 times daily. Chicks, eggs, or other bird matter can be fed 1-2 times per week in addition to the mammals. Always be sure to only provide prey items that are proportionate to the size of the owl to prevent choking hazards.
Feeder Animal Care
It is important to purchase high-quality feeder animals and care for them properly prior to being fed out. Feeders should be housed in clean, spacious enclosures. Provide proper bedding, hiding spots, and enrichments. Feed high-quality feed appropriate for the species. Water must always be available. Minimizing stress and keeping feeder animals healthy will in turn keep your owl healthy.
Always make sure feeder animals are properly pre-killed just before feeding. This is done humanely by cervical dislocation or CO2. Never offer live mammals or birds to a screech owl.
Reptiles and Amphibians
In the wild, screech owls consume a variety of reptiles such as small snakes and lizards, as well as amphibians like frogs, salamanders, and toads. These prey items can provide important nutrients for captive owls as well. Good options include feeder anoles, small frozen rodents, feeder frogs, and feeder fish.
Reptiles and amphibians typically comprise a smaller proportion of the diet compared to mammals and insects. Aim to feed items like frogs, lizards, or fish 1-2 times per week. Variety is important, so offer different types each time to recreate the diversity of their wild diet. Always pre-kill any feeder animals by appropriate means like pithing.
Supplementing with Calcium and Vitamins
Whole animal prey supplies vital protein and calcium for screech owls. However, vitamins and antioxidants also support immune function and overall health. A powdered supplement can help provide any missing nutrients. Sprinkle a small pinch over feeder animals 1-2 times per week. Select an owl-specific vitamin product or one formulated for carnivorous birds. This helps prevent any nutritional deficiencies.
Commercial Owl Diets
For caretakers who want a convenient and nutritionally balanced option, there are several commercial diets made just for raptors. These complete diets consist of ground feeder animals plus essential vitamins and minerals. Brands like Mazuri Owl & Raptor, Hagen Tropican, and ZuPreem Owl & Raptor are veterinarian-formulated to meet all the dietary needs of screech owls and other birds of prey.
These commercial diets can be fed according to package instructions in place of whole prey. Many raptor rehabilitators and zoos rely on these feeds for simplicity and consistency. However, switching abruptly to a ground diet can upset digestion. Gradually transition over 2-3 weeks by mixing increasing amounts with their previous whole prey items.
Pellet Cautions
While commercial owl diets provide balanced nutrition, they lack the physical stimulation of whole prey. Pellets do not allow for natural tearing and ripping involved with eating mice, birds, etc. Feeding only a ground diet long-term may lead to obesity and other health issues over time.
For pet or captive screech owls, it is ideal to feed a partial amount of commercial diet balanced with some whole prey items like mice, chicks, and insects. This provides the best nutrition along with diet enrichment and exercise.
Safe Food Handling
Freshness and food safety are extremely important when feeding animal-based diets. Always source feeder items from reputable, licensed companies. Inspect all prey animals for freshness before purchasing.
Store feeder insects and frozen feeder animals in the freezer if not feeding immediately. Thaw frozen items in the refrigerator overnight before feeding. If feeding whole carcasses, offer immediately after thawing and remove any unfinished food within 20-30 minutes.
All bowls, dishes, prep surfaces, tools, and storage containers must be kept impeccably clean and disinfected after use to prevent dangerous bacteria from accumulating.
Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling any raw feeder items. Keep owl food preparation separate from human food areas. Following strict hygiene and safe handling procedures is vital for any animal consuming a raw meat diet.
Indicators of Spoiled Food
Never feed insect or animal matter that is spoiled or questionable. Signs of spoiled prey include:
- Foul, rotten odor
- Moldy, slimy appearance
- Visible organic matter or cysts/eggs
- Discolored or dried out
Discard any feeder items showing signs of spoilage. Feeding spoiled food can cause serious and potentially fatal illness.
Safe Treats
The bulk of a screech owl’s diet should consist of whole animal prey. However, a few other food items can be offered sparingly as treats.
Chopped Hard Boiled Egg
Small amounts of chopped hard boiled egg make a nutritious source of protein and fat. This can help support feather growth and breeding. Feed just 1-2 teaspoons a few times per week. Avoid giving the shell, as the calcium is unnecessary for most companion owls.
Leafy Greens
Dark, leafy greens provide antioxidants, fiber, and micronutrients. Shredded kale, collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens, etc are healthy options. Offer 1-2 tablespoons a couple times per week. Romaine lettuce can also be fed, but avoid regular iceberg lettuce.
Fruit
While not a normal prey source, a few nibbles of fruit make a nice occasional treat. Bananas, berries, and melons are enjoyed by many raptors. Chop into bite-sized pieces and limit to just 1-2 times monthly to prevent excess sugar intake.
Things to Avoid Feeding
Some foods are not appropriate for screech owls and can actually be toxic or cause severe health issues. Here are some key items to avoid:
- Chocolate – contains dangerous theobromine
- Avocado – toxic to birds
- Caffeine products
- Alcohol
- Salty foods
- Raw meat or eggs
- Dog or cat kibble
- Large animal bones
- Whole prey larger than size appropriate for the owl
Never offer any animal prey not fully pre-killed, as live prey can inflict serious injury. Also avoid wild-caught insects or prey animals, which risk carrying parasites, toxins, or illness. Only feed commercially farmed or raised feeders from reputable suppliers.
Key Takeaways
Here are some key tips to keep in mind when feeding pet or captive screech owls:
- Feed whole prey items like mice, chicks, insects, small reptiles/amphibians
- Variety is important – offer diverse prey types
- Supplement with owl-specific vitamin powder 1-2 times per week
- Can use commercial ground owl diets mixed with some whole prey
- Store and handle all raw meat hygienically
- Avoid chocolate, caffeine, salt, raw meat/eggs, large bones
- Never feed live mammals, birds, or reptiles
Following these best practices will keep captive screech owls healthy and allow them to thrive. Always consult an avian vet with any concerns over diet or nutrition. With proper feeding care, screech owls can make fascinating and rewarding companion birds.
Conclusion
In their natural environment, screech owls are formidable nocturnal predators. Mimicking their diverse wild diet as closely as possible ensures pet screech owls remain in peak physical condition. Provide whole feeder animals like rodents, birds, insects, and small reptiles as the nutritional foundation. Supplement with leafy greens, egg, and an owl-specific vitamin powder. Avoid toxic items like chocolate and raw meat. Following safe handling and hygiene protocols is a must when feeding raw meat. With a varied, whole food diet fed in proper amounts, screech owls captivate us as excellent raptor ambassadors for years to come.
