Western Screech-Owl
Megascops kennicottii
Most are year-round residents and stay c… Look for it in wooded suburbs, cottonwoo… 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
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
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.