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What is a Flammulated Owl?

J.M. Densing
J.M. Densing

A flammulated owl is a tiny, dark eyed owl that is found primarily in western North America and Central America. Its scientific name is Otus Flammeolus, and it is also commonly called the flammulated screech owl or the flammulated scops owl. It is the smallest known species of owl with ears, and like most owls it is nocturnal. Its diet consists mainly of small invertebrates. The flammulated owl usually mates for life.

This owl is similar in size to the pygmy owl, but it weighs less, making it the smallest known species of eared owl. It commonly grows to a length of 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm) with a wingspan of 14 to 19 inches (36 to 48 cm), and weighs just 1.6 to 2.2 ounces (45 to 63 g). It is the only small owl species to have dark brown eyes, and it has a hooked beak. It is usually grey or brown with a light colored face with darker stripes, and stripe patterns or speckling over much of its body.

Crickets are a staple of the flammulated owl's diet.
Crickets are a staple of the flammulated owl's diet.

The primary habitat of the flammulated owl is the forest, especially in mountainous areas with high concentrations of pine trees. Its native area spreads from southern British Columbia through the western U.S. to Mexico. It migrates in the winter from the northern parts of its range where it breeds, and can be found year round in areas with warmer climates.

Centipedes are common prey of the flammulated owl.
Centipedes are common prey of the flammulated owl.

The diet of the flammulated owl consists mainly of small invertebrates like beetles, moths, crickets, spiders, centipedes, and caterpillars. On rare occasions it will eat small rodents like shrews. The flammulated owl is nocturnal by nature, foraging and hunting during the night, particularly during dawn and dusk. It usually rests during the day. It is believed to catch prey in mid-air and to forage for food on the forest floor as well.

The call of the flammulated owl is a soft "boop, boop" that begins and ends in a gradual way, making it difficult to hear. There is usually a short break of about two seconds between notes, and both usually have the same tone. It appears to adjust its call to an even lower volume when it knows there are humans nearby.

Monogamous in nature, the flammulated owl mates for life until the death of its partner. The surviving owl will often re-partner with a new mate. They nest in holes in trees from woodpeckers or natural occurring cavities, and they seldom line their nest with any other materials. The female usually lays two to four white or cream colored eggs and incubates them for 21 to 24 days while the male brings her food. When the babies hatch, they remain in the nest for about three weeks, cared for by both parents. They are usually able to live independently at approximately five weeks of age and have a lifespan of about eight years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Flammulated Owl?

A Flammulated Owl is a small, nocturnal bird of prey, notable for its flame-like facial markings and muted plumage. It's scientifically known as Otus flammeolus and is one of the smallest owl species in North America. These owls are elusive and prefer mixed coniferous forests, where they blend in seamlessly with their surroundings.

Where can you find Flammulated Owls?

Flammulated Owls are found in the mountainous regions of western North America, from southern Canada to Mexico. They migrate to Central America during the winter. Their preferred habitats are open, dry forests with a mix of pine and oak, where they can find ample insect prey and suitable nesting cavities.

What do Flammulated Owls eat?

Flammulated Owls primarily feed on insects, with a diet consisting largely of moths, beetles, and other flying insects. They are adept hunters, catching their prey in mid-air during flight. Their diet helps control insect populations, making them an integral part of their ecosystem's health.

How do Flammulated Owls communicate?

Flammulated Owls communicate through a series of hoots, often described as low-pitched and ventriloquial, making it difficult to pinpoint their location. Males use these calls to establish territory and attract mates during the breeding season. They also have a range of other vocalizations for different social interactions.

What are the conservation concerns for Flammulated Owls?

Flammulated Owls are considered a species of least concern by the IUCN, but they face threats from habitat loss due to logging and development. Climate change also poses a risk, potentially altering their habitat and food availability. Conservation efforts focus on protecting forest habitats and studying their migration patterns for better protection strategies.

How do Flammulated Owls reproduce?

Flammulated Owls breed once a year, typically laying 2-4 eggs in a tree cavity. They do not create their own nests but rely on natural cavities or those excavated by woodpeckers. Both parents share in incubation and feeding duties, with the young fledging about a month after hatching and becoming independent shortly thereafter.

Discussion Comments

watson42

@recapitulate, I agree, these animals seem very free and self-reliant. I personally am most interested by just how many different kinds of owls there are, and how most people don't know much about any species other than the snowy owl or the great grey owl. Yes, those large types are the archetype, but there are many varieties.

recapitulate

Unlike many other small birds, it is interesting that these flammulated owls seem to be very independent. In particular, being able to survive by themselves at about five weeks of age is pretty remarkable to me. Cinsidering how dependent most mammals are when they are born, and for how long, birds, especially ones like owls, are much more sel-sufficient.

anon134039

I love these birds. they are symbols of wisdom, and i loved i could understand almost all the text with my english knowledge!

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    • Crickets are a staple of the flammulated owl's diet.
      By: viter
      Crickets are a staple of the flammulated owl's diet.
    • Centipedes are common prey of the flammulated owl.
      By: evegenesis
      Centipedes are common prey of the flammulated owl.