Strix hylophila
The Rusty-barred Owl (*Strix hylophila*) is a strikingly colored medium-sized owl of the Neotropics, measuring approximately 35-38 cm (14-15 inches) in length with an estimated wingspan up to 80-90 cm. Its most distinctive physical features include a rich rusty-brown plumage, heavily barred with dark brown or black on the underparts, giving it its common name. It possesses a prominent facial disc, often outlined in darker feathers, framing bright yellow eyes and a dark bill. Key field marks f...
Primarily inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, including gallery forests and woodland edges, typically found at elevations from sea level up to 1,500 meters.
Primarily preys on small mammals, such as rodents and bats, as well as small birds and large insects, typically captured from a perch-and-pounce foraging method.
This nocturnal hunter is largely crepuscular and active throughout the night, resting cryptically within dense foliage during daylight hours. Its foraging strategy involves perching patiently on a high branch, then swooping down silently to capture unsuspecting prey on the ground or from vegetati...
The Rusty-barred Owl is a resident species found exclusively within the humid subtropical and tropical forests of southeastern South America. Its primary distribution encompasses a significant portion of southeastern Brazil, extending from the state of Bahia southwards through Espírito Santo, Min...
Near Threatened
- The scientific name "hylophila" translates to "forest-loving," perfectly describing its preferred habitat. - Its distinctive hooting call is often described as one of the quintessential sounds of the Atlantic Forest at night. - Unlike many owls, the Rusty-barred Owl has bright yellow eyes, a ch...