From Opus

Strix occidentalis

Photo by blubird

[edit] Identification

43cm. Cross-shaped markings on the underparts. Head and upper parts brown irregularly spotted with white. Under parts buff with brown and white ovals or barring. Large rounded facial disc that is pale brown with indistinct concentric rings of darker brown encircling the eyes. The facial rim or border is dark brown; lacks ear tufts; the bill is yellowish-green to straw coloured; iris dark brown; claws blackish-brown; feet feathered.

[edit] Distribution

Western North America.

[edit] Taxonomy

S.o. caurina is the northern most race. It ranges along the West Coast from SW British Columbia to San Francisco in the coastal ranges. S.o. occidentalis is found both along the west slope of the Sierras in California and in the coastal ranges from San Francisco to San Diego. S.o. lucida ranges from S. Utah south through Arizona, New Mexico, and W. Texas down into Central Mexico.

[edit] Habitat

Forests.

[edit] Behaviour

It nests in tree holes, old bird of prey nests, or rock crevices. 2 white smooth eggs are laid and are incubated by the female for 28-32 days, who also cares for the young. The male brings food.

It is strictly nocturnal and the diet includes small mammals and birds, flying squirrels, wood rats, hares, and/or rabbits, mice and moles.

[edit] External Links