Subtropical Pygmy-Owl

About the Subtropical Pygmy-Owl

The subtropical pygmy owl (Glaucidium parkeri) is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It is found in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The subtropical pygmy owl's specific epithet honors Theodore A. (Ted) Parker III, "who for over twenty years accumulated an unparalleled knowledge of Neotropical birds and graciously shared his vast expertise with all". It is monotypic.

The subtropical pygmy owl is about 14 to 14.5 cm (5.5 to 5.7 in) long; three males had an average weight of 61.6 g (2.17 oz). It has a widespread brown morph and a rare rufous morph. Adults of the former have a grayish-brown crown; the crown and the sides of the face have prominent white spots. Its nape, like those of most Glaucidium pygmy owls, has black "false eyes". The back and rump are dark brown and the tail blackish with spotty white bands. The underparts are white with broad dull reddish-olive brown streaks. The juvenile plumage has not been described.

The subtropical pygmy owl is found on the east slope of the Andes from far southwestern Colombia through Ecuador and Peru to central Bolivia. In elevation it ranges from 1... Wikipedia →