The fulvous owl, or Guatemala barred owl, is a resident of the cloud forests of Central America. A medium-sized true owl, it has a round head, lacking ear tufts. Its typical coloration is warm dark brown or reddish brown on the back and lighter brown on the front with darker barring. Adults weigh approximately 600 grams (21 oz), with females being heavier. Its distribution is limited to highland regions of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. It inhabits elevations from 1,200 to 3,100 meters, and is fairly common within its range. Its behavior is poorly known, as are its population size and distribution. It is classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, although it is considered endangered in Mexico.
Region
Central American Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane cloud forests and mature pine–oak–evergreen mosaics of the highlands. Core range includes Guatemala, extending into adjacent highlands of Honduras and El Salvador, with localized populations in Chiapas, Mexico. It favors dense, moss-laden forests with abundant epiphytes and shaded ravines. The species is closely tied to intact canopy structure and large old trees for nesting. It is generally absent from lowlands and heavily deforested areas.
Altitude Range
1200–3100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Guatemala barred owl, it is a medium-sized true owl of humid montane forests. It lacks ear tufts and shows rich fulvous-brown tones that help it blend into mossy trunks. Long treated by some as related to the Barred Owl, it is now widely recognized as a distinct species. Its soft, rhythmic hoots carry far through cloud forests on still nights.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent glides through forest understory
Social Behavior
Typically encountered as solitary birds or territorial pairs. Nests in tree cavities or occasionally old stick nests, often in large, mature trees. Clutch size is small, usually 1–2 eggs, with both adults attending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow, resonant hoots given in rhythmic phrases, often at long intervals. Calls carry well in mountain valleys and are most active at night and early dawn.
