Defining Characteristics and Behavior:

The Eastern screech owl is a small owl, about 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) in height and weighing 4-8 ounces (113-227 g). They have distinctive ear tufts on top of the head that are used to help them camouflage in the trees. A Screech owl's color varies from grey to reddish-brown feathers with intricate patterns of white and black. As a nocturnal species, they are primarily active at night, which is when you are likely to hear their trilling call, which can sound like a horse's whinny or a bouncing ball.

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Habitat and Distribution:

• Native to North America, from eastern Canada to Mexico
• Found in a wide range of habitats including forests, woodlands, parks, and suburban areas with mature trees
• Prefer areas with cavities or tree hollows for nesting and roosting

Average Lifecycle:

• Eastern Screech Owls have an average lifespan of 3-5 years in the wild, but can live up to 15 years in captivity
• Females lay 3-4 eggs per clutch, and both parents share incubation duties for about a month
• Juveniles fledge at about 4 weeks and become independent after about 2 months

Fun Facts:

• Eastern Screech Owls are known for their excellent camouflage, which allows them to blend in with their surroundings and avoid detection by predators and prey.
• They have very flexible necks that can rotate up to 270 degrees, which helps them see in all directions without moving their bodies.
• Eastern Screech Owls are skilled hunters, feeding on a variety of prey including insects, small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

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