Owls are usually praised for their acute eyesight and remarkable hearing, making them wonderful night hunters. However, there is one question that always comes to mind: Can owls smell? Although owls possess the sense of detecting odors, their sense of smell is less advanced compared to their eyesight and hearing. Actually, their sense of smell …
The Pernambuco Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium mooreorum) is a small, critically endangered bird native to the Pernambuco region of northeastern Brazil. Discovered in 2002, this owl was long mistaken for other species before its unique characteristics were recognized. Measuring just 13 cm in length, it boasts distinctive plumage and a soft, melodic call. Found only in …
Owls are incredible, captivating creatures, but owning one as a pet in South Carolina—or anywhere in North America—comes with a lot of responsibility. Most native owls are protected by law and illegal to keep unless special permits are acquired. Even with proper permission, an owl is no easy pet to take care of; they have special dietary needs, space requirements, and special vet care. So if you are attracted to owls, you should support local wildlife groups or consider visiting licensed places where you might get a good view of the birds in as natural an …
Barred owls have striking plumage, designed for camouflage and silent flight. Their soft, lightweight feathers feature bold, alternating bars of brown, beige, and white. When identifying their wing feathers, look for wide bars and long, tapered shapes with slightly frayed edges for quiet movement. Their round face is surrounded by soft, lighter feathers that make …
The Brown Fish Owl (Ketupa zeylonensis) is a large, powerful owl found in South Asia and Southeast Asia, known for its distinctive look and expert fishing skills. It primarily feeds on fish but also hunts frogs, crabs, and small mammals. Preferring forests and wetlands near water, it is an adaptable bird that thrives in both …
The Amazonian Royal Flycatcher, with its striking iridescent crest and agile flight, is a beautiful bird that calls the lush Amazon Rainforest home. It spends its days catching insects, but like all creatures in the wild, it has its share of predators. While no owl species is known to specifically hunt the flycatcher, owls like …