This time, I’d like to introduce you to two species of small owls I encountered in the semi-desert regions of Guatemala.
Ferruginous Pygmy Owl: Eyes on the Back of Its Head?
The Ferruginous Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium brasilianum) is one of the smallest owls in the world, measuring just about 17 cm (6.7 inches) in length—small enough to fit in your hand! Its petite size makes it undeniably adorable and a joy to observe.
Active During the Day
Unlike many other owls, the Ferruginous Pygmy Owl is known to be active during the day. On this particular outing, I spotted one while walking along a canyon trail in the bright daylight.
Unique “Eyes” for Defense
What makes this owl stand out is the pair of black spots on the back of its head, which look like a second set of eyes glaring right at you. This clever adaptation helps it ward off potential predators. Despite being a bird of prey, this small owl has many natural enemies, so it uses this unique feature even while resting to trick predators into thinking it’s always on guard. Such an ingenious survival tactic!
Middle American Screech Owl (Megascops guatemalae)
Next up is the Middle American Screech Owl (Megascops guatemalae), which I also spotted in the same area. Unlike the Ferruginous Pygmy Owl, this species is nocturnal, so during the day, it was hidden among the foliage.
A Sensitive Sleeper
We found one resting in an area with plenty of dry leaves. When I tried to take photos, the rustling of leaves startled it, so I had to work quickly.
A Close Encounter at Night
Later that night, while searching for beaded lizards, I encountered another individual hunting nearby. It was perched in ambush, waiting for prey to pass. Surprisingly, it was so close that I could photograph it with a 100mm macro lens, as I didn’t have a telephoto lens on hand.
Distinctive Features and Diet
The Middle American Screech Owl is divided into six subspecies, and the one I observed inhabits Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras (Megascops guatemalae guatemalae).
Feathered Feet
One of its most unique features is its feather-covered feet—a trait rarely seen in other owl species. While its primary diet consists of insects, it also feeds on small reptiles, making it a versatile predator.
Everyone Loves Owls
While many people are uneasy about snakes, I’ve never met anyone who dislikes owls. Perhaps it’s their endearing characteristics that make them universally admired.
What do you think? Please share your thoughts in the comments!
Summary
In this article, I introduced two fascinating owls I encountered in Guatemala: the Ferruginous Pygmy Owl and the Middle American Screech Owl. Both are small but resilient creatures, each with its own unique charm and survival strategies.
If you found this article interesting, I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments!
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