Habitat:
forests, parks, suburban areas

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The Eastern Screech Owl, Megascops asio, is a small owl native to eastern North America. It inhabits forests, parks, and suburban areas, and is known for its excellent camouflage, with plumage ranging from gray to reddish-brown. Measuring about 16 to 25 cm in length with a wingspan of 46 to 61 cm, it primarily feeds on insects, small mammals, and occasionally small birds. Its call, a soft, monotone trill, is often heard at dusk and during the night.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Eastern Screech Owl, focus on dusk or nighttime when it is most active. Use a 400mm or longer telephoto lens to capture detailed images from a distance without disturbing it. Look for natural perches like tree branches where it might rest. Be patient and discreet, as this bird is suspicious. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera in low-light conditions.