Owls inhabit Puerto Rico, with several native species thriving within its unique ecosystems. The island’s varied landscapes provide suitable environments for these nocturnal birds to hunt and live.
Owl Species of Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is home to several distinct owl species, each contributing to the island’s ecological balance. The most prevalent is the Puerto Rican Screech-owl (Gymnasio nudipes), endemic to the archipelago. The Short-eared Owl (Asio flammeus) is an uncommon resident, found in specific open habitats. The Barn Owl (Tyto alba) has also been documented, with a breeding pair observed in 2015, though its status is less understood. Historically, the extinct Puerto Rican Barn Owl (Tyto cavatica) also inhabited the island.
Unique Traits and Habitats
The Puerto Rican Screech-owl, known locally as “Múcaro común,” is a mid-sized owl 20 to 25 centimeters long. It exhibits three color variations: a predominant brown, a common rufous, and a rare gray morph. Primarily nocturnal, it hunts large insects like cockroaches and grasshoppers, and small vertebrates such as frogs, lizards, rodents, and birds. Its distinctive calls include a three-note territorial song and a “cuckoo” sound.
This adaptable owl inhabits humid lowland forests, dry forests, coastal areas, and urban environments with suitable trees. It prefers dense vegetation and hardwood trees offering nesting cavities.
In contrast, the Short-eared Owl occupies open country and grasslands, including lowlands and montane areas. This species builds nests directly on the ground, seeking dry spots with thick herbaceous cover. The Barn Owl, a widespread species, favors open landscapes like farmlands, plantations, urban areas, and various forest types or marshes.
Observing and Protecting Them
Observing these nocturnal birds requires patience and a keen ear. The Puerto Rican Screech-owl is most active after dusk, its calls echoing through forested areas. Listening for its distinctive three-note song or “cuckoo” calls indicates its presence. Short-eared Owls can sometimes be seen hunting in open fields during low-light conditions, even occasionally during the day.
Conservation efforts for Puerto Rico’s owls focus on safeguarding their habitats. The Puerto Rican Screech-owl is classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population. This species has benefited from forest regeneration, particularly where agricultural lands have been abandoned.
Conservation strategies involve protecting diverse habitats and raising public awareness about their ecological importance. Reducing habitat loss and managing invasive species are ongoing challenges in preserving all of Puerto Rico’s native wildlife, including its owls.