A coruja-das-torres-tropicais (Megascops choliba) é reconhecida pela sua cabeça redonda e cauda curta, com plumagem acinzentada ou acastanhada. Se tiver a sorte de o ver, procure uma ave castanha-acinzentada ou ruiva com marcas finas, incluindo estrias finas nas partes inferiores. Borda preta na face. Os sexos são semelhantes. Pode ser encontrada em habitats arborizados, por vezes em campos abertos com arbustos ou jardins com apenas algumas árvores dispersas. Normalmente, é a coruja-das-torres mais comum na área de distribuição.
Habitats e distribuição
The Tropical Screech-Owl inhabits a variety of environments, including tropical and subtropical forests, woodland edges, and even urban and rural areas with sufficient tree cover. This adaptability allows it to thrive in both dense, humid forests and more open areas with scattered trees. It typically roosts in tree cavities, dense foliage, or man-made structures, seeking shelter and suitable nesting sites. Geographically, the Tropical Screech-Owl's range extends from southern Texas and Mexico through Central America, reaching as far south as Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina in South America. It is commonly found at elevations from sea level up to 2,500 meters, with some local populations inhabiting higher altitudes. This broad distribution reflects its versatile habitat preferences and ability to coexist with human-modified landscapes.
Comportamentos e reprodução
Tropical Screech-Owls exhibit primarily monogamous mating habits, with pairs often remaining together for multiple breeding seasons. Their courtship involves a series of duets and calls to reinforce pair bonds. Nesting typically occurs in tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes, with little to no nest material added. The female lays 2 to 3 white eggs and incubates them for about 26-30 days while the male provides food. Both parents participate in feeding and caring for the chicks after hatching. These owls are generally solitary or found in pairs, and their nocturnal nature makes them elusive. They display a unique reproductive strategy known as asynchronous hatching, where eggs hatch over several days. This can result in a size hierarchy among chicks, which might increase survival chances for at least some offspring under adverse conditions.
Dieta
Insectos, pequenos mamíferos e aves
Cores
Acinzentado ou castanho com estrias
Factos divertidos
O seu chamamento é muitas vezes confundido com o de uma rã.
Estado de conservação e esforços
The Tropical Screech-Owl (Megascops choliba) is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its wide distribution and stable population trends. This species is found throughout Central and South America in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and urban areas. While not facing immediate large-scale threats, local populations can be impacted by habitat destruction due to deforestation and agricultural expansion. However, the species' adaptability to different environments, including disturbed landscapes, helps mitigate some of these pressures. Conservation efforts for the Tropical Screech-Owl primarily involve habitat protection and promoting sustainable land-use practices. National parks and natural reserves across its range provide crucial sanctuaries. Additionally, programs aimed at educating local communities about the ecological role of owls and the importance of biodiversity support the species indirectly by fostering environments conducive to their survival. Ongoing research and monitoring are essential to ensure that any emerging threats are promptly identified and addressed.
Galeria
