
Eastern Screech Owl
Introduction
The Eastern Screech Owl (Megascops asio) may be small in size, but don’t let that fool you—it’s a stealthy predator and one of the most common owls in the eastern United States. With its trilling calls, camouflaged feathers, and surprising bravery, this owl is a favorite among birdwatchers and backyard nature lovers alike.
Let’s dive into what makes the Eastern Screech Owl such a charming (and vocal!) resident of American woodlands and suburbs.
Where Can You Find the Eastern Screech Owl?
This owl is widespread across the eastern two-thirds of the U.S., from:
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Southern Canada through the Great Lakes
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Down to Florida, Texas, and even northeastern Mexico
It thrives in:
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Deciduous and mixed forests
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City parks, suburban neighborhoods, and even backyards
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Anywhere there are trees and cavities to nest in
Unlike other owls that avoid people, the Eastern Screech Owl often lives closer to humans than you'd expect.
Appearance: Two Color Phases
Eastern Screech Owls come in two color morphs:
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Gray morph: Blends in perfectly with tree bark
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Red (rufous) morph: A reddish-brown hue, still well-camouflaged
Both types have:
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Ear tufts (that look like tiny horns)
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Yellow eyes
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Streaky, mottled plumage for excellent camouflage
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Small size: 6–10 inches tall, wingspan around 18–24 inches
Despite their size, these owls are fierce predators and very agile in flight.
What Do Eastern Screech Owls Eat?
These owls have a very diverse diet, which helps them adapt to many environments.
Typical prey includes:
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Mice, voles, and small rodents
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Insects (especially moths, beetles, and crickets)
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Small birds, frogs, lizards, and even crayfish
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Occasionally bats and earthworms
They hunt mainly at night, using their silent flight and sharp hearing to surprise their prey.
Nesting and Breeding
Eastern Screech Owls are cavity nesters and will use:
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Tree holes
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Abandoned woodpecker cavities
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Nest boxes (great for backyard owl lovers!)
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Occasionally nest in barns or sheds
Breeding facts:
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Nesting begins in late winter or early spring
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Females lay 2 to 6 eggs
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Incubation lasts around 26 days
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Owlets fledge about a month later
The male hunts while the female stays with the chicks.
What Does the Eastern Screech Owl Sound Like?
Despite the name, they don’t “screech” in the way you might expect.
Common sounds:
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Whinny: A descending trill like a tiny horse
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Trill: A soft, fast “bounce-ball” sound used for communication
They’re most vocal at dusk and during the breeding season. If you hear a spooky, whinnying call in your backyard at night, there’s a good chance it’s one of these owls.
How to Attract Eastern Screech Owls
Want to see (or hear) one in your yard? Try this:
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Install a nest box about 10–20 feet up in a tree
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Keep large trees and dead limbs (if safe) for natural nesting spots
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Minimize pesticide use to protect their food sources
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Keep outdoor lights low—these owls prefer dim, quiet areas
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Play owl calls in the fall or winter to draw interest (responsibly)
Fun Facts About the Eastern Screech Owl
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Bug control: A single owl can eat thousands of insects in a year
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Master of disguise: Their camouflage is so good, they’re often overlooked even in plain sight
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Two morphs: You’ll either see a gray or red one—but both are the same species
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City survivors: These owls thrive in urban and suburban areas, making them one of the most common urban owls in the U.S.
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Fierce parents: They aggressively defend their young—even from predators much bigger than themselves
Conclusion
The Eastern Screech Owl is proof that big personality can come in a small package. Whether hiding in a tree cavity or calling from a backyard, this adaptable and charming owl brings a bit of the wild into our everyday lives. Keep your ears open during the evening hours—you may discover that one of these pint-sized predators is closer than you think!
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