The cinereous owl, or Mexican barred owl, is a species of owl that is endemic to Mexico.
Region
Central and eastern Mexico
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane forests including cloud forest and pine–oak and oak woodlands with dense canopy. Prefers mature, structurally complex stands, often near streams or ravines that provide abundant prey and nest cavities. It keeps to shadowed understories and mid-elevation slopes, where it forages from perches inside the forest. Records are scattered but centered in mountain ranges with persistent moisture and frequent fog.
Altitude Range
1200–2800 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Mexican barred owl, the cinereous owl is a medium-large Strix owl endemic to montane forests of Mexico. It closely resembles the North American barred owl but is darker and more ashy-gray overall, with vocal differences that helped justify its species status. It is poorly known and likely sensitive to loss of mature cloud forest. Most records come from remote, humid mountain ranges where it can be difficult to detect.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent glides
Social Behavior
Mostly solitary outside the breeding season and defends forest territories. Pairs are likely monogamous and nest in large tree cavities, old woodpecker holes, or occasionally on old stick nests. Clutch sizes are small, and both adults tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of deep, resonant hoots delivered in a rhythmic pattern, reminiscent of the barred owl but lower and more even. Calls carry far through humid mountain forests and include hoots, barks, and gruff notes when agitated.
Plumage
Overall ashy-gray and brown with heavy horizontal barring on the upper breast and more vertical streaking on the lower underparts; dense, soft plumage typical of Strix owls for silent flight.
Diet
Hunts small mammals such as mice and rats, as well as small birds, reptiles, amphibians, and large insects. Typically hunts from a perch, scanning quietly before dropping on prey with a short glide. Uses edges, clearings, and stream corridors where prey activity is concentrated. Insects and other invertebrates are taken more frequently in warmer months.
Preferred Environment
Forages within mature forest interiors and along forest edges, especially near riparian zones and ravines. Frequently uses mid-story perches that offer clear strike routes to the ground or lower branches.
