The rusty-barred owl is a medium-sized "typical owl" in subfamily Striginae. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Region
Atlantic Forest of southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid evergreen and semi-deciduous Atlantic Forests of southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina. Prefers mature forest with dense canopy and well-developed understory, but also uses secondary growth and forest edges near streams. It roosts in thick foliage during the day and becomes active after dusk, often hunting from shaded perches within the understory. The species is sensitive to extensive deforestation and fragmentation and is most consistently found in larger forest tracts.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The rusty-barred owl is a secretive forest-dwelling Strix owl of the Atlantic Forest, where it is most often detected by voice rather than sight. It roosts in dense foliage by day and hunts quietly at night from low to mid-level perches. Habitat loss and forest fragmentation are the primary pressures on this species across its range.
Temperament
secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
silent flight with short, rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically found alone or in monogamous pairs holding territories within continuous forest. Nests in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, occasionally using nest boxes if available near forest. Pairs may duet, especially during the breeding period, to reinforce territory and pair bonds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of deep, resonant hoots given in measured sequences, often with a slightly quavering quality. Pairs sometimes give antiphonal duets, and additional calls include soft barks and gruff notes used in close contact.
Plumage
Warm rufous-brown overall with dense rusty barring on the underparts and fine mottling above; facial disc pale buff to whitish with darker rim.
Diet
Takes small mammals such as rodents and small marsupials, along with small birds, frogs, and large insects like beetles and moths. Hunts mainly by sit-and-wait from low to mid-level perches, dropping to the ground or snatching prey from branches. Pellets frequently contain a mix of fur, feathers, and insect remains, reflecting an opportunistic forest diet.
Preferred Environment
Forages within the forest interior, along trails and riparian corridors, and at semi-open edges where prey activity is higher. Often selects perches 2–10 m above ground, using cover to remain concealed while listening for prey.
