From Ronald Kotinsky
You're looking at a Florida master of disguise - the Eastern Screech-Owl (Megascops asio). The fact that you can even see it in this photo is half the lesson.
Screech-owls are one of Florida's most common owls, yet most people go their entire lives without spotting one. The reason is right in front of you. Their cryptic bark-patterned plumage isn't just pretty - it's a survival system. When roosting during the day, they lengthen their body, compress their feathers, and tilt into the tree, becoming virtually indistinguishable from a broken branch stub.
They don't hide in the tree. They become the tree.
So how do you find one?
Look for roost cavities - Screech-owls favor natural tree hollows and old woodpecker holes. Palms, oaks, and dead snags are prime real estate.
Check the entrance holes - On a sunny day, they often sit just inside a cavity with their head poking out, soaking up warmth.
Follow the mob - Songbirds like jays, chickadees, and mockingbirds will relentlessly mob a roosting owl. If you hear an explosion of agitated birds in one spot, go investigate.
Go at dusk - That's when they become active. Listen for their distinctive descending whinny call - once you know it, you'll start hearing them everywhere.
