Rufous-legged Owl
Rostfußkauz (Strix rufipes )
The Rostfußkauz (Strix rufipes ) is a species of the family of authentics owls ( Strigidae ), which is found exclusively in South America.
Features
With a body size of about 33 to 38 centimeters of Rostfußkauz is missing a medium sized ears Article spring within its genus. The face veil is pale orange - brown to ocher pale and usually has dark concentric lines. The throat is white. The body top is sepia brown with a paler drawing that stands out especially on the head and the neck. The body bottom has white, reddish and dark brown stripes. The eyes are brown. The legs and toes are feathered.
Confusion possibilities especially with the Chaco Tawny Owl, whose plumage is, however, significantly paler and has a very bright face veil.
Area of distribution and habitat
The Rostfußkauz occurs in central Chile and southern Argentina. Its southern limit of distribution is in the Tierra del Fuego. Occasionally, it occurs also in the Falkland Islands. He is basically a state bird, baby birds show a large dispersion slope. Its habitat are very dense appearance Beech Forests on mountain slopes or in lowlands. Its altitudinal distribution ranges from the low level to altitudes of 2,000 meters.
Way of life
The Rostfußkauz is crepuscular and nocturnal. He shall sit in trees and usually sits in close proximity to a lichen-covered tree trunk. Occasionally, he also meets in tree hollows. Its diet consists of small mammals up to the size of a rat. Play a role also small birds, reptiles, amphibians and insects. Because of its very shy lifestyle of Rostfußkauz is otherwise not very well studied. Presumably, however, he is a year-round territorial Art The breeding season begins in October. The nest consists of two to three white eggs. Otherwise, through its reproductive biology unknown.