Megascops is the most species-rich owl genus in the Americas, with 21 species currently recognized.
The genus comprises small- to medium-sized owls — commonly known as screech owls for their piercing calls — inhabiting a wide variety of habitats.
It reaches maximum species diversity in mountainous areas, such as the Andes and Central American highlands.
“Screech owls are considered a well-understood group compared to some other types of organisms in these areas,” said Dr. John Bates, curator of birds at the Field Museum in Chicago.
“But when you start listening to them and comparing them across geography, it turns out that there are things that people hadn’t appreciated. That’s why these new species are being described.”
“Not even professional ornithologists who have worked on owls for their entire lives would agree about the actual number of species found in this group, so a study like ours has been awaited for a really long time,” added Dr. Alex Aleixo, curator of birds at the Finnish Museum of Natural History at the University of Helsinki.
Previous studies have suggested that the tawny-bellied screech owl (Megascops watsonii), which is widespread in lowland Amazonia, might include more than one species.
They’ve also suggested that the black-capped screech owl (Megascops atricapilla), which is endemic to the Atlantic Forest, is closely related to the tawny-bellied screech owl complex.
“They’re cute little owls, probably 13-15 cm (5-6 inches) long, with tufts of feathers on their heads,” Dr. Bates said.
“Some are brown, some are gray, and some are in between.”
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