Specimen of the Month: Eastern Screech Owl

Photo by Henggang Cui

Despite their name, these owls don't actually screech. Instead, try listening in wooded areas at night - you may hear softer vocalizations like calming trills. You can also attempt to catch a visual by looking carefully at tree cavities or nest boxes. Screech owls tend to "bundle up" or rest in the sun's rays on cold yet sunny days. 

Oftentimes Eastern Screech Owls are monogamous, meaning they mate with only one partner and stay together for life. To keep the population thriving, you can help these birds by building a nest box near where you live. Check out NestWatch for more information. -Kelly McKinley, Summer Program Assistant