Region

Peruvian Andes

Typical Environment

Endemic to Peru, it inhabits foothill and montane slopes, especially in inter-Andean valleys such as the Marañón and adjacent drainages. It uses semi-humid to dry forest, woodland edges, riparian thickets, and second-growth. The owl favors mosaics of forest patches and clearings where perch-and-pounce hunting is efficient. It can occur near rural settlements and along river corridors where trees remain. Dense vine tangles, bamboo, or thorny scrub are often used for daytime roosting.

Altitude Range

600–2000 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short silent flights with rapid wingbeats between perches

Social Behavior

Usually encountered singly or in pairs, most active after dusk. Pairs likely maintain territories year-round and may duet. Nests in natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes, lining them sparsely. Roosts by day close to the trunk, relying on camouflage.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of evenly spaced hoots that may rise slightly in pitch, sometimes preceded or followed by a short tremolo. Pairs may exchange phrases in duet, and agitated birds give trills or whinny-like notes.