The spectacled owl (Pulsatrix perspicillata) also called a Murucututu, is a large tropical owl native to the neotropics. It is a resident breeder in forests from southern Mexico and Trinidad, through Central America, south to southern Brazil, Paraguay, and northwestern Argentina. There are six subspecies. One is occasionally treated as a separate species called the short-browed or brown-spectacled owl but the consensus is that it is still merely a race until more detailed analysis can be done. The spectacled owl can range from 41 to 52.3 cm (16.1 to 20.6 in) in length. Mass in males can range from 453 to 1,075 g (1.00 to 2.37 lb), whereas females can weigh from 680 to 1,250 g (1.50 to 2.76 lb). 10 males from the nominate subspecies (P. p. perspicillata) were found to average 767 g (1.69 lb) while 8 females averaged 908 g (2.00 lb).
Despite their relatively large size, Spectacled Owls, like other predatory birds, are often chased off by much smaller bird species who are trying to protect themselves, or their young, from getting eaten. Even the buzzing attack of a small hummingbird can be enough to make a Spectacled Owl leave its perch and look for a place where it can remain undisturbed. Though The Peregrine Fund doesn't work directly with Spectacled Owls, our efforts in scientific research, habitat conservation, education, and community development help conserve birds of prey around the world. We also supply literature to researchers from our avian research library, which helps scientists around the world gather and share important information on raptor conservation. We also support the Neotropical Raptor Network, which was created to help improve communication among raptor biologists, veterinarians, and enthusiasts working in the Neotropics.
