The Eastern Screech-Owl is a small, remarkably camouflaged owl with ear tufts and cryptic bark-like plumage in either gray or rufous color morphs. It is one of the most common owls in the East but is rarely seen due to its perfect concealment in tree cavities where it roosts by day. Its eerie, descending whinny call is one of the classic sounds of eastern forests at night.
Best time to see a Eastern Screech-Owl
The best time to see a Eastern Screech-Owl is January–June, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 18,751 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Eastern Screech-Owl? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Eastern Screech-Owl sightings near you
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