The Guatemalan pygmy owl is a small "typical owl" in subfamily Surniinae. However, some taxonomic systems consider it to be a subspecies of northern pygmy owl. It is found in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occupies montane pine–oak and cloud forests, as well as forest edges, clearings, and mature secondary growth with scattered large trees. It favors areas with dense midstory for cover and open perches for hunting, including shaded coffee plantations near native forest. Often found along ridgelines, ravines, and riparian corridors within highland forests. Uses cavities in dead or live trees for roosting and nesting, typically in old woodpecker holes.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny owl is mostly crepuscular and often active by day, perching conspicuously and bobbing its tail while scanning for prey. Like many pygmy-owls, it has bold dark 'false eyes' on the nape that can startle predators and confuse mobbing birds. It has sometimes been treated as a subspecies of the Northern Pygmy-Owl complex, but several authorities recognize it as a distinct species. Despite its size, it can take prey nearly as large as itself, including small birds.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift direct dashes
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside the breeding season and defends small territories. Nests in tree cavities, often reusing old woodpecker holes; clutch size is small and both parents contribute to feeding young. Frequently mobbed by small passerines due to its predation on birds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a steady series of evenly spaced hollow toots, often delivered from a prominent perch at dawn and dusk. Calls include short whistles, trills, and scolding notes when agitated.
Plumage
Compact owl with brown upperparts finely spotted and barred, and whitish underparts marked with narrow brown streaks. Tail shows several narrow pale bars. Nape bears two bold dark patches bordered pale, forming prominent 'false eyes'. Occasional rufous-tinged individuals occur.
Diet
Takes a variety of prey, including large insects (beetles, orthopterans), small mammals, lizards, and small birds. Hunts from low to mid-level perches, making rapid sallies to seize prey on branches or the ground. Occasionally caches surplus prey in dense foliage or cavities.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, and semi-open interiors where visibility from perches is good. Often hunts near streams, trails, and roads within highland forests, and will use shaded agroforestry systems adjacent to native forest.
