Eastern Screech Owl
Otus asio

Size: 9"; up to 20-inch wingspan

Male: Small "eared" owl that occurs in one of two permanent color morphs. It is either mottled with gray and white, or is red brown (rust) with white (as shown). Bright yellow eyes.

Female: Same as male.

Juvenile: Lighter gray than adult, usually no ear tufts.

Nest: Nests in former woodpecker cavities and does not use nesting material. One brood per year.

Eggs: 4-5; white without markings

Incubation: 25-26 days; female incubates, male feeds female during incubation

Fledging: 26-27 days; male and female feed young

Migration: The Eastern Screech Owl can be found in St. Charles County year round.

Food: Large insects, small mammals, birds, and snakes.