The flammulated owl is a small migratory North American owl in the family Strigidae. It is the only species placed in the genus Psiloscops.
Region
Western North America and Central America
Typical Environment
Breeds in montane coniferous forests from southern British Columbia and the western United States south into the highlands of northern Mexico. Prefers open, mature stands of ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, and mixed conifer with nearby aspen edges. Nests almost exclusively in old woodpecker cavities, often those of flickers and sapsuckers. Winters in pine-oak and montane forests of Mexico and as far south as Guatemala and Honduras. Typically selects areas with open understory and scattered clearings for foraging.
Altitude Range
1000–3300 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny owl is the only species in the genus Psiloscops and is notable for its dark eyes, unlike many small owls that have yellow irises. It breeds in mature montane conifer forests and almost always nests in abandoned woodpecker cavities. Its name refers to the subtle flame-like rufous tones in its plumage. It is a strict insect-eater and migrates to Mexico and Central America for the winter.
Juvenile flammulated owl, northern Arizona
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent, buoyant glides
Social Behavior
Typically monogamous during the breeding season and nests in tree cavities, often reusing woodpecker holes. The male advertises territories with persistent low hoots at night and provides food to the incubating female. Clutches usually contain 2–4 eggs, and both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
A soft, low-pitched series of single hoots given in steady rhythm, often sounding ventriloquial. Calls carry surprisingly far through forests on calm nights and can be difficult to localize.
Plumage
Finely mottled gray-brown with dark streaks and subtle rufous, flame-like highlights; very cryptic against bark. Small ear tufts and a neat facial disk with darker border; pale throat.
Diet
Primarily moths and beetles, also crickets, grasshoppers, and other nocturnal insects. Hunts by sallying from perches or making short aerial sorties along canopy openings. Will glean insects from foliage and occasionally hawk around forest edges or small clearings. May take advantage of insect concentrations near lights.
Preferred Environment
Open-canopy conifer forests, forest edges, and small clearings within mature montane woodland. Often forages near the mid to upper canopy where insect activity is high.
