Found in the woods and deserts of western North America, western screech owls use camouflage to blend in with trees where they nest. They are very difficult to spot in the wild.
The life of a western screech owl
Western screech owls grow up to 10 inches long and can weigh nearly 11 ounces. They live an average of three to seven years in the wild and up to 20 years in human care. Their wingspan can reach two feet.
Western screech owls’ diverse diet includes insects, small mammals, reptiles and amphibians, as well as other smaller birds. Despite their size, they are aggressive predators that can prey on larger animals like rabbits and mallards. They build nests in tree holes and are also found in residential areas nesting in backyard boxes.
During mating, couples will perform duet calls together and males give gifts of food to females. Females lay two to seven eggs at a time, which hatch within one month. Males provide all the food for the newborns and the mother. Females stay with the young constantly for the first three months of their lives. Both parents protect the nestlings from predators.
Predators include larger owls such as barred owls and great horned owls, as well as birds of prey like hawks. Racoons, gopher snakes and crows also prey on eggs and young western screech owls.
Western screech owls at the zoo
Western screech owls are ambassador animals at the zoo. They help educate guests about their species during special presentations.
