MAGELLANIC HORNED OWL

Common name: Magellanic Horned Owl
Scientific name: Bubo magellanicus
Order / Family: Strigiformes / Strigidae
Size: Around 45-63 cm long, and a wingspan of 101-140 cm.
Weight: Around 900-1400 grams.

Physical description
Large raptor with dark brown plumage on the upper parts, and white plumage with dark spots on the lower parts. Large and round head with two tufts of feathers above the eyes.

Habitat
Forests, urban and rural areas in South America. In Magallanes, it can be found in lenga forests, mixed forests, peat bogs and steppe. It is a resident bird with a wide distribution, being observed from the northernmost part of the region to Cape Horn.

Behavior and feeding
During the day, it is often seen resting in trees or natural cavities in rocks. It preys at night and, unlike other owls, this species is an active hunter, as it moves through the forest or grasslands after its prey, instead of waiting for the prey to pass by while staying still on a perch. It feeds mainly on small mammals such as mice and rabbits, although it can also eat birds, reptiles, and insects. It stalks from a relatively high position and then attacks.

Breeding
During the breeding season, the male courts the female with call and flight displays. In Magallanes, it nests in tree holes and cliffs, as well as in abandoned human buildings. It is a monogamous bird and breeds in winter and early spring. It lays 2 to 4 eggs. Both parents participate in the incubation of the eggs and in the rearing of the young.

Conservation status
It is considered "Least Concern" by the IUCN.