Cloud-forest Screech-Owl
Megascops marshalli
Small screech-owl known from relatively few sites along the east slope of the Andes from central Peru to Bolivia. The bold dark crescents that border its buffy facial disks separate it from Rufescent Screech-Owl and Cinnamon Screech-Owl. Also note the small ear tufts and star-shaped markings on the underparts. Inhabits lush, ephiphyte-laden cloud forest. Typical song is rapid series of soft whistles (“pu-pu-pu-pu-pu…”), slightly faster than Cinnamon Screech-Owl and lower-pitched than Rufescent Screech-Owl.
Identification
The cloud-forest screech owl is 20 to 23 cm (7.9 to 9.1 in) long; a male and a female weighed 105 g (3.7 oz) and 115 g (4.1 oz) respectively. It is among the smallest screech owls. It has a rufous facial disc with black edges on the sides, white brows over dark brown eyes, and short "ear" tufts. Its crown and upperparts are a rich reddish brown with blackish mottling and a buffy nuchal "collar". The folded wing shows a line of white spots and the tail is barred. Its breast is rufous with dark streaks and thin vermiculations. Its belly is off-white with dark streaks and thin barring.
Taxonomy
The cloud-forest screech owl is monotypic. Its nearest relatives are the cinnamon screech owl (Megascops petersoni) and Yungas screech owl (M. hoyi) but their exact relationship has not been settled. The species' specific epithet commemorates Joe T. Marshall, "the modern-day student of nightbirds".
- Scientific name
- Megascops marshalli
- Authority
- (Weske & Terborgh, 1981)
- Order
- Strigiformes
- Family
- Strigidae
- Genus
- Megascops
Range and habitat
The cloud-forest screech owl was originally thought to be confined to south and central Peru, in the Departments of Pasco, Cuzco, and Puno. Since 2005 it has been recorded in northern Bolivia as well. It inhabits cloud forest, a humid, mossy landscape with epiphytes, ferns, and a dense understory. In elevation it ranges at least from 1,900 to 2,600 m (6,200 to 8,500 ft) and possibly higher.
- Migration
- Resident species
Behavior
The cloud-forest screech owl forages in the canopy; it is believed to be mostly insectivorous.<p>Very little is known about the cloud-forest screech-owls breeding phenology. It appears to breed between late June and August and is assumed to nest in tree cavities like others of its genus.<p>The cloud-forest screech owl's song is "a continuous series of monotonic hoots" whose intensity increases and then ends abruptly. It also occasionally utters a "trill-like short song".
Conservation
- Population trend
- stable
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds
Helmet Vanga
Euryceros prevostii
Huge black vanga with a rufous back and an enormous blue bill. Rare and localized Madagascar endemic that is found in northeastern rainforest at low and middle elevations. Usually in the mid-story, perching motionless for long periods. Often joins flocks with other large vangas. Most easily located when nesting in a large mossy cup that is placed on a forking mid-story branch. Song is a long, delicate, high-pitched, slightly descending trill.
Orange-footed Megapode
Megapodius reinwardt
Large gray-brown bird with a pointed crest on its head and massive orange legs and feet. Resident on the floors of tropical rainforests. This species builds very large nest mounds (so large they almost look like earthworks). Also found in cosmopolitan parks and gardens. Note loud crowing call.
Southern Lapwing
Vanellus chilensis
Raucous, conspicuous shorebird. Distinctive color pattern with black breast, white belly, gray head, and bronzy shoulder. Wings boldly patterned in flight. Often in pairs or small flocks in open habitats, usually near water but also in dry pastures. Loud grating call is a good clue to its presence.
Start Your Bird Watching Journey
Identify a bird outdoors and keep the field guide close for your next observation.