Photo by George
Wall taken in Brazil
The first time I saw a Ferruginous
Pygmy-Owl was in Costa Rica on a trip in 2001. At that time, I didn’t
know they could also be found in Arizona. Since then, I have seen them
twice in Mexico and most recently in Brazil. As yet, I haven’t seen
them in Arizona. The one shown above looks more like a Northern than a
Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl, but notice the streaked crown rather than
spotted crown of the Northern and also the arched eyebrows.
Description:
A very small owl with long tail – very similar in appearance to the
Northern Pygmy-owl. They are only 6” and stocky with very large talons
compared to their body. There are prominent white brows above the
facial disc. There are two eyespots on the nape. The tail is barred
brown and black. Sexes are similar with females slightly larger and
more reddish, especially on the brown in the tail. The flight is low to
the ground and rapid with long swoops.
Habitat:
Mesquite thickets, desert river woods, saguaros. It hunts by day
(mostly at dawn and dusk) and is often mobbed by birds.
Diet:
Not well known, but probably large insects, small animals as well as
birds.
Nesting:
Nests in natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes. They have 3-4
white 1” eggs. Male brings food and feeds the female and the young ones.
Range:
From S.E. Arizona all the way to Argentina
Other common
names: Ferruginous Owl; Cactus Pygmy-Owl; Gnome Owl; Streaked
Pygmy-Owl
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