Otus
Otus is an Eastern Screech Owl (Megascops asio). We are pretty sure Otus was hit by a car, as she was found on the side of the road. Otus joined our education birds in 2009. She has lost her right eye, and has a non-repairable right wing injury, so is unable to fly.
Salem
Salem is an Eastern Screech Owl. She is in the training mode and has not been shown during programs yet.
Eastern Screech Owl(Megascops asio) Facts
Eastern Screech Owls are small owls that are typically gray or reddish brown (more common in this part of North Carolina). They have distinctive ear-like feather tufts, yellow eyes, a yellowish beak, and feathered toes. They are “perch and pounce” predators and are quite aggressive despite their size.
Size
Length: 16-25 cm (6.3-9.8 in.)
Wing span: 51-56 cm (20-22 in.)
Weight: 110-200 g (3.9-7 oz.)
Habitat
Almost anywhere with trees.
Diet
Insects, small birds, mice, voles.
Call
Barks, hoots, rasp trills, and one that resembles a horse’s whinny
Nesting
Nests in tree cavities. Usually 3-5 eggs that hatch in approx. 26 days
Life Expectancy
In the wild: up to 8 years (if they survive the first year)
In captivity: up to 13 years