Puerto Rican Screech-Owl

Puerto Rican Screech Owl

A Reference for Caribbean, North, and Central American Owls

The Puerto Rican Screech Owl is fairly common on the island of Puerto Rico. Having recovered from almost complete deforestation of the island by the mid 1900’s this owls population is currently considered stable. Unfortunately, on the adjacent islands, including the US Virgin Islands, where a second subspecies once existed, it appears the owl has been completely extirpated. The Puerto Rican Screech-Owl can be found in reddish and grayish brown color forms although the latter is uncommon. Short-eared Owl, the only other owl found on Puerto Rico, is much larger and different in appearance so the Puerto Rican Screech-Owl is not generally misidentified.

Here you can find photos, recordings, and information about this unique and beautiful owl. The field notes section includes information on habitat, description, history, nesting, behavior, and status.

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