General

Whiskered Screech-Owl: Small owl with distinct ear tufts, gray and brown mottled upperparts, and brown-streaked, white-barred underparts. Facial bristles are longer and denser than in other screech owls. Sexes are similar.

Range and Habitat

Whiskered Screech-Owl: Resident in range, in the north of its range (Arizona), there may be some down slope movements in winter. Prefers montane habitats.

Breeding and Nesting

Whiskered Screech-Owl: Two to four white eggs are laid in a natural cavity or abandoned woodpecker hole. Female incubates for 21 to 30 days.

Foraging and Feeding

Whiskered Screech-Owl: Feeds on insects, spiders, and small mammals. Hunts from a perch, flying out to catch winged prey.

Vocalization

Whiskered Screech-Owl: Main call is a long series of hoots "woot, woot, woot, woot", with emphasis on the third note and falling off towards the end. Also calls a hollow hooting, usually in duet with the slightly higher pitched female.

Similar Species

Whiskered Screech-Owl: Eastern Screech-Owl is larger, has yellow eyes, and duller breast streaks. Western Screech-Owl is larger, darker overall, has yellow eyes, and a gray/black bill. Voice is often the best way to distinguish these species.