The Andean Pygmy Owl is a small owl species found in the Andes Mountains of South America. It measures around 15 cm in length and weighs about 60 grams. It has a round head with large yellow eyes and a white eyebrow stripe. Its upperparts are brown with white spots, while its underparts are white with brown streaks. It has a short tail and long, feathered legs. It feeds on insects, small mammals, and birds. The Andean Pygmy Owl is known for its distinctive call, which is a series of whistles that sound like “too-too-too-too-too.”
Characteristics and Facts About Andean Pygmy Owl
1. Small size: The Andean Pygmy Owl is a small bird, measuring only 15-17 cm in length.
2. Nocturnal: This owl is primarily active at night, hunting for prey under the cover of darkness.
3. Round head: The Andean Pygmy Owl has a round head with large, yellow eyes that are set forward on the face.
4. Brown and white plumage: The bird’s feathers are brown and white, with a distinctive white eyebrow stripe above the eyes.
5. Powerful talons: The Andean Pygmy Owl has strong, sharp talons that it uses to catch and kill its prey.
6. Inhabits high-altitude forests: This owl is found in the high-altitude forests of the Andes Mountains, from Venezuela to Bolivia.
7. Carnivorous: The Andean Pygmy Owl feeds primarily on insects, small mammals, and birds.
8. Territorial: This bird is highly territorial and will defend its territory against other birds and animals.
9. Vocal: The Andean Pygmy Owl has a distinctive call, which is a series of whistles and hoots.
10. Migratory: Some populations of the Andean Pygmy Owl are migratory, moving to lower elevations during the winter months.