The cloud-forest pygmy owl or cloudforest pygmy owl is a short, muscular, small-sized species of owl found throughout the Andes of western Colombia and north-western Ecuador, being confined to cloud forests between 900–2000 m a.s.l. Below this altitudinal range the Central American pygmy owl occurs; above it, the Andean pygmy owl occurs.
Region
Northern Andes (western Colombia to northwestern Ecuador)
Typical Environment
Confined to humid montane cloud forests, primarily in mature and well-structured forest with a dense canopy and rich epiphyte growth. It uses edges, clearings with remnant trees, and secondary forest but is most frequent inside intact forest. Typically perches at mid-story to subcanopy levels and hunts along forest trails, ridgelines, and stream corridors. The species appears intolerant of extensive deforestation and is patchily distributed where continuous cloud forest remains.
Altitude Range
900–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Recently recognized as distinct from the Andean and Central American pygmy-owls based largely on voice and subtle plumage differences. It shows the classic pygmy-owl nuchal 'false eyes' on the back of the head that may deter predators. Two color morphs (brown and rufous) occur, and the species is often active by day in dim cloud-forest light.
Northern pygmy owl showing "false eyespots" behind head
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief direct dashes through forest
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside the breeding season and maintains small territories. During breeding, pairs form and nest in tree cavities, often old woodpecker holes. The female incubates while the male provisions her and later the chicks. Clutch size is small, and family groups may stay together for a short period after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of evenly spaced, clear whistled toots that carry through cloud forest, often given at dawn and dusk. Pace and intensity may increase when agitated, and pairs sometimes duet. Calls help separate it from similar pygmy-owls at higher and lower elevations.
