The western screech owl is a small owl native to North and Central America, closely related to the eastern screech owl. The scientific name commemorates the American naturalist Robert Kennicott.
Region
Western North America
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Alaska and western Canada through the western United States into Mexico, including Baja California. It occupies a wide range of wooded habitats, from riparian corridors and mixed forests to desert canyons, orchards, and suburban parks. It favors areas with cavities for nesting, such as old woodpecker holes or natural tree hollows, and adapts well to human-altered landscapes where mature trees persist.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The western screech-owl is a small, nocturnal owl native to western North America and was formerly placed in the genus Otus. It readily uses nest boxes and natural tree cavities, which can help gardeners and farmers with natural rodent and insect control. Its name honors American naturalist Robert Kennicott, and its distinctive call is a bouncing series of whistled notes rather than a classic hoot.
Western screech owl in the Pacific Northwest
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
silent flier with short, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside the breeding season, though pairs form long-term bonds. Nests in tree cavities or nest boxes, often reusing sites; clutch size typically 2–5 eggs. Both parents tend the young, with the female incubating while the male provides food.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Primary call is a series of accelerating, evenly spaced whistles that resemble a bouncing ball. It also gives soft trills and short whinny-like notes, especially during courtship and territorial displays.
