Order: Strigiformes
Family: Strigidae
The Magellanic Horned Owl, also called the Tucúquere, is a striking nocturnal raptor native to southern South America, including Patagonia. Recognizable by its large size, yellow eyes, and distinctive feathered ear tufts, this owl is a powerful predator. Its plumage is mottled brown and gray, providing excellent camouflage among rocks and trees. The species is highly adaptable, inhabiting a range of environments from open woodlands and shrublands to grasslands and even semi-desert areas. It is mostly active at night, using its keen senses to hunt a variety of prey. The Magellanic Horned Owl plays an important ecological role by controlling populations of small mammals and birds. Its deep, resonant hoots are a familiar sound in Patagonian nights.
Habitat
Found in open forests, shrublands, grasslands, and rocky areas throughout Patagonia and southern South America.
Foraging
Hunts mainly at night, preying on small mammals, birds, and occasionally insects and reptiles.
