#megascops

Eastern Screech Owl (Megascops asio), "rufous morph", family Strigidae, order Strigiformes, Myakka River State Park, FL, USA

Eastern Screech Owl Megascops asio

A small owl that is relatively common in Eastern North America, from Mexico to Canada. This species resides in most types of woodland habitats across its range, and is relatively adaptable to urban and developed areas compared to other owls. Two color variations are referred to as "red or rufous morphs" and "gray morphs". The eastern screech owl's call is a tremolo with a descending, whinny-like quality, like that of a miniature horse. They also produce a monotone purring trill lasting 3–5 seconds.

A male Eastern screech owl (Megascops asio) at Green Cay Nature Center & Wetlands, Florida, USA

...I totally forgot to post the final of my screech owl! I had an encounter with a screech in my back yard a little while ago - she was sitting on a plant pot at knee height - and in the total darkness I nearly blundered into her. I don't know who was more surprised. She definitely made this face at me before flying off.

Reference photo from Unsplash by @longhornjosh