Spectacled Owl song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Spectacled Owl, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The primary song is a deep, guttural, accelerating series of hoots, often described as 'BOO-boo-boo-boo-bo-bo-bo-bo-bo-bo-bo-bo' or 'PUP-pup-pup-pup-pup-po-po-po-po-po', ending in a rapid, fading series. It can sound somewhat like a machine gun or a popping sound. The male's call is typically deeper than the female's.

Calls

Various calls include a sharp 'kweer' or 'kwaak' alarm call, a soft 'hoo' contact call between mates, and hissing or bill-clapping when agitated or defending the nest.

When they vocalize

Most vocal at dusk and dawn, and intermittently throughout the night, especially during the breeding season.

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