The Puerto Rican owl or múcaro común, formerly known as the Puerto Rican screech owl, is a mid-sized "typical owl" in subfamily Striginae. It is endemic to the archipelago of Puerto Rico though it formerly also inhabited the Virgin Islands.
Region
Caribbean
Typical Environment
Found throughout wooded habitats in Puerto Rico, including mature forests, secondary growth, and shaded coffee plantations. It favors areas with abundant tree cavities for nesting and roosting. The species is scarce or absent from extensive open areas and heavily urbanized zones. Historically it also occurred in parts of the Virgin Islands but is now considered extirpated there.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the múcaro común, this owl is endemic to the Puerto Rican archipelago and is now likely extirpated from the Virgin Islands. Its species name, nudipes, refers to its relatively bare, unfeathered tarsi—unusual among screech-owls. It nests in tree cavities and readily uses shaded coffee farms and secondary forests. Its rolling, tremulous trill is a familiar night sound in many wooded parts of Puerto Rico.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, silent and maneuverable
Social Behavior
Typically roosts alone or in pairs and defends a territory. Pairs nest in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, with the female incubating while the male provides food. Young fledge after several weeks but may remain near the nest territory for some time.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast, tremulous trill that rises and falls, often delivered in series during the night. Also gives soft hoots and whinnies; calls carry well in humid forest conditions.
