Appearance
Eastern screech-owls are a smaller species of owl in Florida and are approximately the size of a robin. This species has three distinctive color morphs, a rust-red, a slate-gray, and occasionally a brown color as an intermediate. They have a set of tufted feathers on top of their head that resemble ears or horns.
Habitat
Screech-owls live primarily in tree-dominated habitats such as deciduous and coniferous forests, suburban parks and wooded yards. However, they are limited by the availability of nest cavities, as they do not build or modify their own.
Behavior
Screech-owls have a broad diet consisting of insects, earthworms, crayfish, small amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. They’re very skilled at capturing moths, bats, and songbirds. They primarily rely on their vision to hunt, waiting on a perch for prey to walk, crawl, or fly by. These small owls do not “hoot”, but they do call with eerie whinnies and trills.
Screech-owls nest in tree cavities, nest boxes, and sometimes even in the soffits of neglected buildings. Male eastern screech-owls defend a territory with multiple nest cavities. They are usually monogamous, but males will occasionally pair up with a second female during the breeding season. Eggs hatch after about 26-34 days, and owlets are ready to fly in another 26-30 days. Screech-owls have been known to carry live blind-snakes to their nest, a snake species that eats insects infesting the nest while leaving the eggs and chicks alone.
Living with owls
Screech-owls, like most raptors, provide natural pest control in our communities by helping to control insect and rodent populations. If you’re using rodenticides, it is recommended to take care and follow these guidelines. Occasionally, screech-owls will nest in a damaged attic, mailbox, or half-built structure. Nesting in undesirable places can be prevented by keeping structures maintained and properly enclosed. Notably, screech owls will regularly occupy nest boxes if you would like to invite owls onto your property. Owls, their young, and their active nests are protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act. For more tips on preventing and resolving conflicts with owls and other raptors, see the Additional Information below.
Owls can be an enjoyable neighborhood visitor to observe. To sustainably support owls and other wildlife in your yard, follow FWC’s guide to creating wildlife habitat at home.