Band-bellied owl

The band-bellied owl (*Pulsatrix melanota*) is a species of owl in the family Strigidae, native to Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. It forms a superspecies with the tawny-browed owl (*Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana*), though they are considered different due to variations in morphology and vocalizations. The band-bellied owl has two subspecies: *P. m. melanota* ( nominate) and *P. m. philoscia*. The species is relatively large, with a length of 44–48 cm (17–19 in). Adults weigh between 590–1,250 g (1.30–2.76 lb), averaging 873 g (1.925 lb). They have dark brown facial disks and white "brows" over dark reddish-brown eyes. Their upperparts are dark chocolate brown with buffy-white spots, while the tail features thin white bars. The upper breast is reddish-brown with buff barring, and the underparts are white to creamy with reddish-brown barring. Juvenile plumage remains undescribed. The nominate subspecies (*P. m. melanota*) is found on the eastern slope of the Andes from central Colombia through Ecuador and Peru, while *P. m. philoscia* ranges into west-central Bolivia. The species inhabits elevations between 650–2,200 meters (2,130–7,220 feet) in humid montane forests, foothills rainforests, forest edges, and clearings with scattered trees. Band-bellied owls are nocturnal and primarily feed on large insects. Little is known about their breeding behavior, though they likely nest in natural tree cavities. Their vocalizations include short, deep trills followed by fast bursts of popping notes, as well as deep, muffled hoots. Both sexes perform duets. The IUCN lists the band-bellied owl as Least Concern, though its status is poorly studied and ...