Watercolor portrait of Western Screech-Owl (Megascops kennicottii)

Western Screech-Owl

Megascops kennicottii
Fairly common but often overlooked Bouncing-ball song

Learn to identify the Western Screech-Owl by ear. Master the "boing, boing, boing-boing-boing" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“boing, boing, boing-boing-boing”

What the Western Screech-Owl sounds like

This little owl is a master of hide-and-seek. It sits bolt upright against a trunk, all bark-pattern feathers and bright yellow eyes, then comes alive at dusk with a string of soft, bouncing whistles.

“boing, boing, boing-boing-boing”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A short series of soft whistles that speed up slightly and then trail off, like a rubber ball losing bounce. This is the classic sound most birders learn first. Often written as “boing, boing, boing-boing-boing”.
Don't confuse with:The Eastern Screech-Owl — nearly identical, but found mainly east of the rockies.

Where you'll hear it

Most are year-round residents and stay close to the same territory through the seasons. They nest in natural tree holes, old woodpecker cavities, and readily use nest boxes.

Look for it in wooded suburbs, cottonwood-lined creeks, oak woods, desert canyons, and evergreen forests. It likes places with trees for cavities and enough open space to hunt.

They are active all year, but easiest to detect on calm nights from late winter into spring when pairs call more often. By day, they usually disappear into bark and shadows.

Similar species

Eastern Screech-Owl

Nearly identical, but found mainly east of the Rockies.

Northern Saw-whet Owl

Smaller and rounder, with no obvious ear tufts.

Flammulated Owl

Also a small western owl, but slimmer with dark eyes instead of yellow.

Western Screech-Owl song FAQ

What does a Western Screech-Owl sound like?
A short series of soft whistles that speed up slightly and then trail off, like a rubber ball losing bounce. This is the classic sound most birders learn first. Listen for the "boing, boing, boing-boing-boing" phrase.
How do I tell a Western Screech-Owl from a Eastern Screech-Owl by sound?
Eastern Screech-Owl: Nearly identical, but found mainly east of the Rockies.; Eastern gives a descending whinny and a long trill rather than the classic bouncing-ball song.; Range is the biggest clue if you’re out west..
When is the best time to hear a Western Screech-Owl?
They are active all year, but easiest to detect on calm nights from late winter into spring when pairs call more often. By day, they usually disappear into bark and shadows.