Lesser Horned Owl

Characterized by a robust physiognomy and a medium-to-large size within its family, this raptor exhibits a body length ranging from 35 to 45 centimeters and a wingspan of approximately 100 centimeters. Its plumage features a highly complex cryptic pattern dominated by grayish, brownish, and buff tones, heavily barred with dark brown on the underparts, allowing it to blend seamlessly with tree bark and rocky substrates. Two prominent feather tufts, resembling ears or horns, sit atop its head, being notably smaller than those of its northern relative. Its eyes are a striking vibrant yellow, framed by a grayish-brown facial disc with a thin black border. It possesses a strong, hooked, dark gray bill and exceptionally powerful talons densely feathered down to the toes.

Geographical distribution: Distributed throughout the southern cone of the South American continent, this species ranges from central Peru and western Bolivia, extending south along the Andes through Chile and Argentina, to Tierra del Fuego and the outermost islands of Cape Horn.

Habitat: Found across an impressive variety of terrestrial ecosystems, from sea level up to elevations exceeding 4,500 meters in the Andean peaks. It prefers temperate Nothofagus forests, arid scrublands, Patagonian steppes, rocky ravines, mountainous slopes, and semi-open areas with scattered trees, demonstrating exceptional ecological plasticity under extreme weather conditions.

Feeding: Feeds on a strictly carnivorous diet as a generalist and opportunistic predator, adapting to the local abundance of prey. It preys heavily on small mammals, primarily rodents of the genera Abrothrix and Phyllotis, as well as introduced lagomorphs such as European hares and European rabbits. It complements its nutrition with medium-sized birds, small reptiles, amphibians, and large terrestrial invertebrates, including beetles and scorpions, which it captures through stealthy ambushes from elevated perches.

Behavior: Maintains predominantly nocturnal and crepuscular habits, spending daylight hours camouflaged in dense foliage or cliff crevices. Its flight is remarkably silent due to the specialized structure of its primary feathers. It is a highly territorial and solitary species, except during the breeding season. Its vocalization is highly distinctive, consisting of a deep, two-syllable hoot resembling a "too-coo" sound, which has inspired various local common names across South America.

Nesting: Commences its breeding cycle in the late austral winter, typically between August and September. It does not construct elaborate nests; instead, it utilizes cavities in rocky cliffs, rock ledges, bare ground sheltered by thorny shrubs, or abandoned stick nests of larger raptors. The female typically lays 2 to 3 dull white eggs, which she incubates exclusively for approximately 32 to 35 days, while the male takes on the sole responsibility of hunting and provisioning food for the female and the subsequent chicks.

Conservation status: Listed as a species of Least Concern (LC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Although its global population remains stable, local populations face anthropogenic threats, including habitat fragmentation due to wildfires, collisions with power lines, direct persecution fueled by superstitious beliefs, and secondary poisoning resulting from the use of chemical rodenticides in agricultural areas.