The ‘ear tufts’ of the Screech Owl are not real ears–they are special feathers that assist in daytime camouflage. All Owls have ears that are actually two holes hidden on the sides of the head, asymmetrically placed to facilitate sound wave orientation. Screech Owls can be either gray or red, a permanent coloration called a ‘morph’ or ‘phase.’ This nocturnal owl’s quavering, mournful call is easy to identify. A cavity nester, the Screech Owl may move into vacated woodpecker holes.

Latin Name: Megascops Asio

Habitat: Pine Flatwoods, Oak Hammock, Swamp

Diet: large insects, small mammals, birds, snakes