Unspotted Saw-whet Owls
Owl Information … Index of Owl Species … Photos of Various Owl Species for Identification
The Unspotted Saw-whet Owls, Aegolius ridgwayi, is a small nocturnal owl (= active at night).
Distribution / Range
It breeds in the highlands of Central America from southern Mexico south to western Panama, mainly above 2500 m. it has occasionally been considered conspecific (of, or belonging to, the same species) with the Northern Saw-whet Owl.
Breeding / Nesting
It breeds in open mountain forests, in both the cloud forest and the higher oak woodland.
It uses tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker nest for nesting.
Diet / Feeding
It primarily feeds on rodents, shrews and other small mammals. It may also take birds, bats and insects.
Description
This is a small, dumpy, short-tailed and broad-winged owl, 18 cm long and weighing 80 g. It is dark brown above with white markings on the wings. The underparts are unstreaked buff, becoming darker on the upper chest and facial disc.
Its head is large, with yellow eyes and a white-edged facial disc.
The flight is fluttery and agile.
Owl Eyes / Vision Adaptations
Calls / Vocalizations
They voice a series of rhythmic toots.
Species Research by Sibylle Johnson
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