Cloud-forest Screech Owl

The cloud-forest screech owl (Megascops marshalli) is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It is found in Bolivia and Peru. == Taxonomy and systematics == The cloud-forest screech owl is monotypic. Its nearest relatives are the cinnamon screech owl (Megascops petersoni) and Yungas screech owl (M. hoyi) but their exact relationship has not been settled. The species' specific epithet commemorates Joe T. Marshall, "the modern-day student of nightbirds". == Description == The cloud-forest screech owl is 20 to 23 cm (7.9 to 9.1 in) long; a male and a female weighed 105 g (3.7 oz) and 115 g (4.1 oz) respectively. It is among the smallest screech owls. It has a rufous facial disc with black edges on the sides, white brows over dark brown eyes, and short "ear" tufts. Its crown and upperparts are a rich reddish brown with blackish mottling and a buffy nuchal "collar". The folded wing shows a line of white spots and the tail is barred. Its breast is rufous with dark streaks and thin vermiculations. Its belly is off-white with dark streaks and thin barring. == Distribution and habitat == The cloud-forest screech owl was originally thought to be confined to south…