Eastern Screech-Owl

This small owl is best detected by its distinctive descending whinny or soft trill given after dark from woodland edges, parks, and suburban areas with mature trees offering cavities to roost and nest in. Its cryptic grey or reddish plumage makes it extremely difficult to spot by day, so listening at dusk and through the night, especially in early spring when calling activity peaks around pair formation and nesting, is far more productive than searching visually. Playback of its call can draw a response but should be used sparingly, if at all, to avoid disturbing courting or nesting pairs.