The black-capped screech owl, or variable screech owl, is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina (notably Misiones). It inhabits humid evergreen and semi-deciduous Atlantic Forest, including secondary growth, forest edges, and gallery forest. The species tolerates moderately disturbed habitats and can occur near forested parks and plantations adjacent to native woodland. It favors dense understory and well-wooded ravines where it can hunt from shaded perches.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the variable screech owl, it shows striking plumage polymorphism, ranging from gray to rufous morphs. It is a quiet, forest-dwelling owl of the Atlantic Forest and is more often detected by its rhythmic trills at night than seen. Pairs typically nest in tree cavities, often old woodpecker holes.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent, low-level flights through forest
Social Behavior
Primarily solitary outside the breeding season; pairs defend small territories. Nests in natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes, with 2–3 eggs typically laid. The female incubates while the male provisions the nest, and fledglings remain near the nest area for weeks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow whistles and trills, often accelerating slightly and delivered in repeated bouts at night. Calls are most frequent at dusk and pre-dawn, and pairs may engage in soft duets near the nest.
Plumage
Highly variable (gray, brown, or rufous morphs) with fine vermiculations and dark barring; compact owl with small ear tufts. Crown appears distinctly darker, forming a blackish cap; pale facial disc with a darker rim and whitish throat. Underparts are streaked and barred; legs are feathered.
Diet
Feeds mainly on large insects such as beetles, moths, katydids, and crickets. It also takes spiders and occasionally small vertebrates like frogs, lizards, and small rodents. Prey is typically taken by short sallies from a perch or pounced upon on the forest floor.
Preferred Environment
Hunts along forest edges, clearings, and along trails and streams within dense woodland. Frequently uses low to mid-level perches that offer cover and vantage points near gaps or glades, sometimes near artificial lights that attract insects.
