The rufous-legged owl is a medium-sized owl. It is found in Argentina and Chile.
Region
Southern Andes and Patagonian Temperate Forests
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern Chile and adjacent southwestern Argentina, primarily within evergreen and mixed Nothofagus forests. It prefers mature and old-growth stands with dense understory, especially where Chusquea bamboo is present. The species also uses second-growth forest, riparian corridors, and forest edges but generally avoids open steppe. Nesting typically occurs in natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker and raptor holes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive owl of the temperate rainforests of Chile and Argentina, the rufous-legged owl is named for its richly rufous, feathered legs. It favors dense Nothofagus and Valdivian forests, often with bamboo understory, and depends on large tree cavities for nesting. As a nocturnal predator, it helps control rodents and large insects in forest ecosystems.
Chick, Ñuble forest, Chile
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
silent, buoyant flight with short glides between trees
Social Behavior
Typically encountered as single birds or bonded pairs that defend forest territories. Pairs are presumed monogamous and nest in large tree cavities or old woodpecker holes. Roosts by day in dense foliage or bamboo thickets; juveniles disperse after fledging toward late summer.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a series of deep, resonant hoots delivered at intervals, often in rhythmic sequences. Pairs may duet at night, with calls carrying far through the forest understory.
Plumage
Overall mottled brown with buff and whitish barring below; soft, dense feathers for silent flight. Rounded head without ear tufts and a pale facial disc edged darker. Legs are thickly feathered and distinctly rufous.
Diet
Primarily preys on small mammals such as forest rodents, and also takes small birds, large insects, and occasionally amphibians. Hunts from low to mid-level perches, dropping silently onto prey on the ground or in understory. Prey is swallowed whole when small; indigestible parts are regurgitated as pellets.
Preferred Environment
Forages within dense interior forest, along riparian corridors, and at forest edges near clearings. Frequently hunts around bamboo thickets and along wooded ravines where prey activity is high.
