The subtropical pygmy owl is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the humid subtropical and montane forests of the Andes in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. It favors cloud forests, forest edges, and secondary growth with tall trees and dense understory, including bamboo (Chusquea) patches. Often uses forest gaps, roadsides, and riparian corridors for hunting. Typically encountered as a low-density resident within suitable habitat.
Altitude Range
800–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small owl of the Andean foothills is often active by day as well as at dawn and dusk, which is unusual for many owls. Like other pygmy-owls, it has false eye-spots on the nape that can deter predators and confuse mobbing birds. It often elicits strong mobbing responses from small songbirds, helping birders locate it. Its soft, repeated toots carry through cloud forest edges and bamboo thickets.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside of the breeding season and maintains small territories. Nests in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes; pairs are likely monogamous during the breeding period. Clutches are small, and both adults attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, evenly spaced toots that may accelerate slightly, carrying well through forest. Also gives short trills and whistles when agitated or during territorial interactions.
Plumage
Compact, with brown upperparts marked by fine white spots and barred tail; underparts whitish to buff with dense brown streaking. Nape shows distinct dark patches forming eye-like spots. Feathers are soft and cryptic, aiding camouflage in shaded forest.
Diet
Feeds primarily on large insects such as beetles, moths, and orthopterans. Will opportunistically take small vertebrates including small birds, rodents, and lizards. Hunts from low to mid-level perches, making short sallies to capture prey in foliage or on the ground.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, and along trails where visibility and prey availability are higher. Utilizes bamboo thickets, vine tangles, and riparian strips within montane forest.
