Northern Pygmy Owl
Glaucidium gnoma
The adult mountain pygmy owl is approximately 15–17 cm (5.9–6.7 in) in length. Males weigh from 48 to 54 g (1.7–1.9 oz); however, reverse sexual dimorphism indicates that adult females are larger in mass reaching 60 to 73 g (2.1–2.6 oz). The wing length of a male is 86–89 mm (3.4–3.5 in) and that of a female is 87–98 mm (3.4–3.8 in), while the tail of both sexes can reach 61–66 mm (2.1–2.6 in). Adult plumage color is similar to that of most pygmy owls. The chest and throat are white, while the face is a deeper brown. Voice: There is limited information regarding specific seasonal calls or songs, pertaining to the mountain pygmy owl. However, it is suggested that vocal behavior observed in the Eurasian pygmy owl (G. passerinum) can be applied to the other pygmy owl species.
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Pearl-spotted Owlet
Glaucidium perlatum
The pearl-spotted owlet is one of the smallest owls in Africa with a length of 17 to 21 cm. The females are slightly larger and heavier (100g) than the males (65g). Both males and females have similar plumage colouration. The facial disc is off-white and the eyes are yellow. At the back of the head there are two striking false black 'eyes' with a white outline. The upper parts are cinnamon-brown with white spots. The tail and flight feathers are brown, with large white spots forming bars in flight. The bill and cere are pale greenish yellow, the legs are feathered white and feet are yellow. Voice: Pearl-spotted owlets call by day and night, especially before breeding, but are quiet when nesting. They have a distinct call: a loud series of shrill, short whistles that accelerate in tempo and rise in volume to a crescendo of long, loud whistles that descend in pitch and volume, peu peu peu-peu-peu peeuu peeeuu. A breeding pair may call in duet, whereby the female is higher pitched.
ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Play today's Daily BirdPhotos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Northern Pygmy Owl and Pearl-spotted Owlet.