The tropical screech owl (Megascops choliba) is found in forests and wooded areas throughout Central and South America (this one was photographed in central Panama). Despite the name, these owls don’t screech. They let out a soft, trilling call that sounds more like a frog than a typical owl. Well-camouflaged with mottled gray or brown plumage, they blend perfectly into tree bark during the day, often going completely unnoticed. At night, they become efficient hunters, swooping silently after insects, small reptiles, and even the occasional bat. Nikon D810 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 330mm) ISO 400, f/8 at 1/200th of a second, Nikon SB-900 flash.
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The tropical screech owl (Megascops choliba) is found in forests and wooded areas throughout Central and South America (this one was photographed in central Panama). Despite the name, these owls don’t screech. They let out a soft, trilling call that sounds more like a frog than a typical owl. Well-camouflaged with mottled gray or brown plumage, they blend perfectly into tree bark during the day, often going completely unnoticed. At night, they become efficient hunters, swooping silently after insects, small reptiles, and even the occasional bat. Nikon D810 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 330mm) ISO 400, f/8 at 1/200th of a second, Nikon SB-900 flash.
Look to be a good size also with those big eyes
Definitely big eyes, although mid sized owl.
So glad you spotted him!. The golden eyes are beautiful!