The Baja pygmy owl or cape pygmy owl, is a subspecies of northern pygmy owl restricted to the Mexican state of Baja California Sur. Although some taxonomists, including the International Ornithologists' Union, consider it to be a distinct species, other authorities, including the American Ornithological Society, do not consider it separate, and consider it to be a subspecies of the northern pygmy owl.
Region
Baja California Peninsula
Typical Environment
This owl is confined to the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, primarily within the Sierra de la Laguna and surrounding foothills. It occupies pine–oak woodlands, riparian corridors, thorn-scrub, and oasis habitats interspersed within otherwise arid landscapes. It favors areas with scattered trees for hunting from perches and cavities for nesting. In the driest zones it is most often found along arroyos and canyon bottoms with denser vegetation.
Altitude Range
0–2200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Cape Pygmy-Owl, it is restricted to the Cape region of Baja California Sur, Mexico. Some authorities treat it as a distinct species while others lump it within the Northern Pygmy-Owl complex. Like other pygmy-owls, it is partly diurnal and often mobbed by small songbirds. It shows prominent dark nape spots that resemble false eyes to deter predators.
Temperament
bold and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Typically solitary outside the breeding season and highly territorial. Nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes, with the pair defending a small territory. Clutch size is small, and both parents participate in provisioning the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a steady series of clear, evenly spaced toots that can carry far in still air. Also produces soft whistles and chatter during close interactions and territorial encounters.
