Texas Parks and Wildlife Education
Texas Parks and Wildlife Education
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Under the Moonlight Ranger Eric’s Adventure with the Eastern Screech Owl
The Enigmatic Eastern Screech Owl: Nature's Tiny Night Hunter
The eastern screech owl (Megascops asio) is a charming and intriguing resident of North America's woodlands. Known for its distinctive calls and remarkable camouflage, this small owl captivates birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
A Distinctive Appearance
The eastern screech owl is relatively small, typically measuring around 6 to 10 inches in length. Its plumage varies from gray to reddish-brown, allowing it to blend seamlessly into tree bark. This incredible camouflage is a vital survival tool, enabling it to avoid detection by both predators and potential prey.
One of the most recognizable features of the eastern screech owl is its tufted "ears," which are actually feathered tufts that serve no real purpose other than to enhance its appearance and help with communication. These tufts can be raised or lowered depending on the owl's mood, adding to its expressive nature.
Habitat and Distribution
Eastern screech owls are found throughout the eastern United States and parts of Canada. They prefer wooded areas, including deciduous and mixed forests, as well as suburban parks and gardens. Their adaptability to urban environments makes them a common sight, often nesting in tree cavities or even man-made structures.
Vocalizations and Behavior
One of the most enchanting aspects of the eastern screech owl is its haunting call, which can be described as a series of tremulous trills. These calls serve various purposes, including marking territory and attracting mates. Their vocalizations are often heard during dusk and dawn, adding a mystical soundtrack to the evening.
Despite their small size, eastern screech owls are formidable hunters. They primarily feed on insects, small mammals, and birds, utilizing their excellent night vision and silent flight to stalk their prey. Their hunting technique is often characterized by a stealthy approach followed by a swift, precise strike.
Conservation and Human Interaction
While the eastern screech owl is currently not considered endangered, habitat destruction poses a potential threat to their populations. Nest box programs have been successful in providing these owls with safe nesting sites, helping to bolster their numbers in urban areas.
Bird enthusiasts often create backyard habitats to attract these owls, using nest boxes and providing natural cover. Observing an eastern screech owl can be a magical experience, reminding us of the wonders of nature even in our own backyards.
Conclusion
The eastern screech owl is a remarkable creature, showcasing the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Its unique adaptations, fascinating behaviors, and haunting calls make it a beloved symbol of the night. As we strive to protect their habitats, we also preserve the enchantment these owls bring to our lives. Whether heard or seen, the eastern screech owl is a reminder of the magic that exists in the shadows.
Science TEKS
5.9(A) observe the way organisms live and survive in their ecosystem by interacting with the
living and nonliving components
Social Media
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TPWDiscover
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Filmed & edited by: Eric Rosenthal
Переглядів: 35

Відео

Public Meeting | Proposed Cultivated Oyster Mariculture Sites in Matagorda Bay (G-0023-G-0051)
Переглядів 134 години тому
This is a recording of a webinar that took place on September 30, 2024 regarding proposed cultivated oyster mariculture grow-out facilities in Matagorda Bay (G-0023-G-0051). For questions about cultivated oyster mariculture in Texas, please email oyster.mariculture@tpwd.texas.gov. If you would like to provide comment about the proposed site, comments are due by 5:00 pm on October 14, 2024. Plea...
Exploring the World of the Speckled King Snake with Ranger Eric
Переглядів 1,1 тис.19 годин тому
The Fascinating Speckled King Snake: Nature’s Beautiful Constrictor When it comes to captivating reptiles, the speckled king snake (Lampropeltis getula holbrooki) stands out as a true gem. With its striking pattern of yellow and black or brown spots, this non-venomous snake is not only visually stunning but also plays a vital role in its ecosystem. A Unique Appearance The speckled king snake is...
Sea Rim State Park: Virtual Tour
Переглядів 8414 днів тому
Sea Rim State Park: Virtual Tour
Goliad State Park: Virtual Tour
Переглядів 8314 днів тому
Goliad State Park: Virtual Tour
Lake Mineral Wells State Parks: Virtual Tour
Переглядів 17314 днів тому
Lake Mineral Wells State Parks: Virtual Tour
Inks Lake State Park: Virtual Tour
Переглядів 5614 днів тому
Inks Lake State Park: Virtual Tour
Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site: Virtual Tour
Переглядів 8014 днів тому
Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site: Virtual Tour
Galveston Island State Park: Virtual Tour
Переглядів 12114 днів тому
Galveston Island State Park: Virtual Tour
Atlanta State Park: Virtual Tour
Переглядів 7114 днів тому
Atlanta State Park: Virtual Tour
Gorman Falls at Colorado Bend State Park
Переглядів 3414 днів тому
Discovering Gorman Falls: A Hidden Gem in Colorado Bend State Park Nestled in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Gorman Falls is a breathtaking oasis that showcases the natural beauty of Colorado Bend State Park. If you’re seeking a tranquil escape with stunning scenery, this is the perfect destination. A Scenic Journey The adventure begins with a scenic hike along well-maintained trails that mea...
Shaping Enchanted Rock The Power of Erosion, Deposition, and Weathering
Переглядів 18314 днів тому
Meet Ranger Hannah as she uncovers the mysteries of Enchanted Rock! Discover how this giant formation got its unique shape and the role that erosion, weathering, and deposition play in its transformation over time. Plus, find out what gives Enchanted Rock its signature pink hue. Join TPWDiscover and explore the fascinating processes that have shaped this iconic landmark! Join in and play our Ka...
Public Meeting | Proposed Cultivated Oyster Mariculture Sites in Matagorda Bay (G-0022)
Переглядів 2021 день тому
This is a recording of a webinar that took place on September 11, 2024 regarding a proposed cultivated oyster mariculture grow-out facility in Matagorda Bay (G-0022). For questions about cultivated oyster mariculture in Texas, please email oyster.mariculture@tpwd.texas.gov. If you would like to provide comment about the proposed site, comments are due by 5:00 pm on September 25, 2024. Please em...
Public Meeting | Proposed Cultivated Oyster Mariculture Site in Matagorda Bay (G-0021)
Переглядів 28Місяць тому
Public Meeting | Proposed Cultivated Oyster Mariculture Site in Matagorda Bay (G-0021)
Coastal Fisheries Careers | Inspecting Shrimp Farms
Переглядів 85Місяць тому
Coastal Fisheries Careers | Inspecting Shrimp Farms
Wildlife Diversity Webinar Series | Post delisting Monitoring of Black capped Vireo in Texas
Переглядів 103Місяць тому
Wildlife Diversity Webinar Series | Post delisting Monitoring of Black capped Vireo in Texas
Nature's Survivors Behavioral and Physical Adaptations of Deer
Переглядів 784Місяць тому
Nature's Survivors Behavioral and Physical Adaptations of Deer
Reading Ranger - Don't Call Me Pig! A Javelina Story
Переглядів 2392 місяці тому
Reading Ranger - Don't Call Me Pig! A Javelina Story
Wildlife Diversity Webinar Series | Digitizing Texas’ Botanical Legacy
Переглядів 1062 місяці тому
Wildlife Diversity Webinar Series | Digitizing Texas’ Botanical Legacy
Habitats and Ecosystems of Mustang Island State Park: A Student's Guide
Переглядів 1932 місяці тому
Habitats and Ecosystems of Mustang Island State Park: A Student's Guide
360° Panorama of Bison at San Angelo State Park
Переглядів 3302 місяці тому
360° Panorama of Bison at San Angelo State Park
Public Meeting | Proposed Cultivated Oyster Mariculture Sites in Matagorda Bay (G-0019 and G-0020)
Переглядів 323 місяці тому
Public Meeting | Proposed Cultivated Oyster Mariculture Sites in Matagorda Bay (G-0019 and G-0020)
Meet the Texas Rat Snake with Ranger Eric
Переглядів 3,6 тис.3 місяці тому
Meet the Texas Rat Snake with Ranger Eric
Wildlife Diversity Webinar Series Integrated Disease Management System Approach to Reduce White No
Переглядів 1063 місяці тому
Wildlife Diversity Webinar Series Integrated Disease Management System Approach to Reduce White No
You Won't Believe What Happened When I Saw This Snake!
Переглядів 4133 місяці тому
You Won't Believe What Happened When I Saw This Snake!
Nature's Classroom: Mastering Plant Identification with the Wildlife Wizard
Переглядів 1533 місяці тому
Nature's Classroom: Mastering Plant Identification with the Wildlife Wizard
Up Close with the Speckled Kingsnake: Ranger Eric's Guide
Переглядів 8813 місяці тому
Up Close with the Speckled Kingsnake: Ranger Eric's Guide
Ranger Eric Explores: Are Wooly Bears Harmful?
Переглядів 5534 місяці тому
Ranger Eric Explores: Are Wooly Bears Harmful?
Winged Wonders: Exploring Bird Adaptations with Craig Hensley
Переглядів 5004 місяці тому
Winged Wonders: Exploring Bird Adaptations with Craig Hensley
Coastal Fisheries Careers | Studying the Elusive American Eel
Переглядів 1014 місяці тому
Coastal Fisheries Careers | Studying the Elusive American Eel

КОМЕНТАРІ

  • @TexArmadillo
    @TexArmadillo 3 години тому

    Can't wait to hit the trails

  • @buffalomowing1188
    @buffalomowing1188 10 днів тому

    Thank you ranger for this important work

  • @0UziDoorman0
    @0UziDoorman0 11 днів тому

    I'm convinced, in nature, the beautiful things, most likely are venomous and can kill you, and the scary, dangerous things, are the sweetest

  • @jenbaird6457
    @jenbaird6457 13 днів тому

    I am in N. California and wasn't sure of what I saw in the slough (drainage creek) that runs through my back yard, Until now. Thank you Ranger Rachel for your perfectly balanced cute, fun and informative video.

  • @f.demascio1857
    @f.demascio1857 14 днів тому

    Really wished you had a close up of her. I just came across one in my back yard (Virginia) and wanted to id it. I'm pretty sure you're talking about the same spider I found. I can see similar thicker spots on her web radials, and your description matches.

  • @8ruun293
    @8ruun293 16 днів тому

    私は蜘蛛恐怖症ですが動画を観続けて克服しつつあります

  • @KeikoKaiCreations
    @KeikoKaiCreations 16 днів тому

    Love the Hawai’i shoutout 🤙

  • @alvhynbrotonel646
    @alvhynbrotonel646 18 днів тому

    actually that spider have a litte poison if you get bitten you may actually very hurt is will bleed a little bit and that poison bite can't make you sick or have a fever and if you have medicine is easy so you are safe for orb silk spider 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

  • @CrazyCamo
    @CrazyCamo 20 днів тому

    Keep growing that protein, yeeeehaw

  • @webwhisper2701
    @webwhisper2701 24 дні тому

    ah, an amazing animal! 💙💙💙

  • @h.mattberetta3564
    @h.mattberetta3564 25 днів тому

    I don't know what the big deal is, I just saw my gf running around in her jaguar undies last night. I'm just kidding, she doesn't wear underwear.

  • @Starts_like_this
    @Starts_like_this 27 днів тому

    Would love to visit someday ❤ new to Texas (Houston) Thank you for the history lesson 🇺🇸

  • @paulenewilson9716
    @paulenewilson9716 Місяць тому

    I think I just saw one that has been hit. It's located on I10 East before the goat creak exit in Kerrville

  • @maefaemusic
    @maefaemusic Місяць тому

    This morning, I was taking a hike and literally saw a dark colored giant cat (about the same size as my dog) literally cross the trail in front of me. It kind of freaked me out because of how large in size it was! Like a giant cat, with a very long tail. So I did some research and I can say that I am 99% sure this is what I saw

  • @hrt4me
    @hrt4me Місяць тому

    on two separate occasions I have spotted a jaguarundi in Hopkins County

  • @Tea4Texas
    @Tea4Texas Місяць тому

    The new regulations are probably the worst decision made on a grand scale by TPWD , especially the coastal commisson. 15-25” slot worked great.

  • @MrFring.
    @MrFring. Місяць тому

    Does the bite hurt that bad?

  • @peterkwolek2265
    @peterkwolek2265 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for making this, moved to San Marcos a few years ago and recently getting more interested in the environment and history in this area. (Is this the same Edwards as feeds the San Marcos River?)

  • @Twohoppies
    @Twohoppies 2 місяці тому

    I watched this video to win an argument.

  • @Xenon_Proto
    @Xenon_Proto 2 місяці тому

    Orb weavers are terrifying, but in reality they are super chill and are a keystone species in some ecosystems. Please don’t kill them!

  • @danweed426
    @danweed426 2 місяці тому

    I live in Colombia and had a jaguarundi in tree in front of my cabin. I have photos. I am lucky to have witnessed one.

  • @yolandagary1719
    @yolandagary1719 2 місяці тому

    I saw one today in Yoakum Texas! I didn't know what it was. It just looked like the color of a grey fox but had a small head. It did not look like a dog. My son was with me and we were both mesmerized. It happened so quick we didn't think about taking a picture!

  • @stevev.3628
    @stevev.3628 2 місяці тому

    This is dumb. Just saw a jaguarundi in Austin, TX an hour ago.

  • @Mr.C-Mister
    @Mr.C-Mister 2 місяці тому

    Cave was thousands of years in the making. The world is only 6k years old. The flooding during Noah's time 4k years ago is what caused all the smoothing out of the rock.

  • @hippyhair1920
    @hippyhair1920 2 місяці тому

    She’s so pretty 😭

  • @Delfino-oy3bw
    @Delfino-oy3bw 3 місяці тому

    🌊 🐬 ☀️

  • @ExterminatorOfTheWORLD
    @ExterminatorOfTheWORLD 3 місяці тому

    TAMBAYAWAN NAPAKA ANGA UYYy

  • @madisonfalk2606
    @madisonfalk2606 3 місяці тому

    I saw one just last week 100% not like any other animal I’ve seen

  • @CJJohnson-tt6xs
    @CJJohnson-tt6xs 3 місяці тому

    Cj ❤️💋💋❤️

  • @CJJohnson-tt6xs
    @CJJohnson-tt6xs 3 місяці тому

    Cj When Brownsville,Texas was all shot up due to a racial incident,my grandfather was the one who helped train that infrantry of Buffalo Soldiers. There was an article about this in EBONY magazine back in the 1970's,about this very incident.

    • @CJJohnson-tt6xs
      @CJJohnson-tt6xs 3 місяці тому

      Cj My grandfather's name was George Lasley,Sr.He served in the Buffalo Calvary from the late 1800s through the early 1900's.

    • @CJJohnson-tt6xs
      @CJJohnson-tt6xs 3 місяці тому

      Cj Proud Buffalo Soldier.RIP with all your Buffalo Soldier Brothers,Grand Papa Georg & Sisters who also served.

    • @CJJohnson-tt6xs
      @CJJohnson-tt6xs 3 місяці тому

      Cj Proud Buffalo Soldier.RIP with all your Buffalo Soldier Brothers,Grand Papa Georg & Sisters who also served.

  • @CJJohnson-tt6xs
    @CJJohnson-tt6xs 3 місяці тому

    Cj I am from Texas 👍👍💯💯

  • @CJJohnson-tt6xs
    @CJJohnson-tt6xs 3 місяці тому

    Cj I show a lot of appreciation for this video.I am very proud of this,not only honor all these soldiers;but my grandfather was a Buffalo Soldier.

  • @UnKnown-zy1km
    @UnKnown-zy1km 3 місяці тому

    I heard they release 300 in Florida years ago to help keep down the rodents and there is still sights today. I may be wrong on the number released but I think it was 300 also dont remember the year these were released in Florida just that it was a long time ago...

  • @taariqm-star6162
    @taariqm-star6162 3 місяці тому

    Bro is from before the time of "challenge accepted". Why would you dare idiots to chase these rare babies around for evidence? This is why the stay outta Texas 😅

  • @GamerGal0X
    @GamerGal0X 3 місяці тому

    I saw one in Lubbock Texas around midnight two weeks ago in the city limits. My friend and I followed it because we couldn't decide if it was a cat or some sort of weasel or even a fox of some sort. We decided to look up the mammals of Texas and were shocked to see the image of the jaguarundi, especially that far north...

    • @stevev.3628
      @stevev.3628 2 місяці тому

      Same. Just saw one in Austin an hour ago. At first, all I saw was the tail and thought it was a fox. Then, I got closer, and it was like a cat weasel. Looked it up as soon as I got home and I'm 100% positive it was a grey jaguarundi.

  • @weriesblack1375
    @weriesblack1375 3 місяці тому

    Coyote sayed that they have a nucrotic venom like the black widow can you confirm that?

  • @Son-of-Thucydides
    @Son-of-Thucydides 3 місяці тому

    My wife is absolutely certain she saw one cross our property last year here in McLennan County, Texas, between Temple and Waco. Gray, weasel-like, and catlike at the same time, small head, ~25-30 pounds in size. It was about 1:00 PM in broad daylight. She watched it for about 10 seconds before it disappeared into the riparian woodlands surrounding our property. She watched it through our big front windows and then watched it through our bedroom windows as it moved toward the east and toward the riparian woods. I was lying on the couch, napping, when she started yelling at me to come look at it. By the time I got up to look, it was already gone. She is certain of what she saw, and it does not matter to her what Jonah Evans or anyone else who wasn't there says. I tried to talk her out of it, telling her that this is well outside the habitat zone for the jaguarundi and that what she saw was almost like seeing a sasquatch, but she was steadfastly adamant. At the same time, wildlife go where they will with no recognition of what is supposed to be their habitat zones or boundaries. FYI: We have all manner of wildlife at our place; we've seen wild turkey, white-tailed deer, coyote, bobcat, gray fox, all sorts of raptors (Mississippi Kite, Red-tailed Hawks, Swainson's Hawks, Red-shouldered Hawks, Eastern Screech Owl, Great Horned Owl, and so forth). We are considering applying to the National Wildlife Federation for sanctuary status because the place is a thoroughfare for all manner of wildlife (our place is bordered by two dense riparian corridors). I would not be surprised to see a mountain lion come through here.

    • @stevev.3628
      @stevev.3628 2 місяці тому

      I believe you. Saw one in Austin an hour ago.

  • @davido7452
    @davido7452 3 місяці тому

    I saw the cat at deer lease in Morales TX Sandy Creek WLM 100 yards out.2 years ago . Was not positive about the cat type ( sunset) , given rumblings of black cat on property I not fire. Very interesting just watching

  • @burrburr6816
    @burrburr6816 3 місяці тому

    I doubt very much that snake can wrap around a mouse , even a Texas mouse

  • @Noah-sy1sl
    @Noah-sy1sl 3 місяці тому

    Spotted on crossing the road in Canon City, CO June 2024

  • @Yvng_YBK-RRR
    @Yvng_YBK-RRR 3 місяці тому

    Fun fact: roaches will actually go out of their way to bite you and spiders will only bite you when you accidentally squish them or make them feel threatened

  • @sabian8700
    @sabian8700 3 місяці тому

    I heard golden orb wigger

  • @NithilanThiru
    @NithilanThiru 3 місяці тому

    I love those animals!

  • @mathewfoster2058
    @mathewfoster2058 3 місяці тому

    Appreciate the information.

  • @willpech2329
    @willpech2329 3 місяці тому

    Nope

  • @ODDee816
    @ODDee816 3 місяці тому

    Thank you sir!

  • @billiehaneline4500
    @billiehaneline4500 4 місяці тому

    I saw them in the zoo, so I know what I saw in South Texas. July 6th 1980. We were traveling on a lonesome road when I saw one traveling the same way on the grass side of the road, at about a trot.

  • @JoeyB31208
    @JoeyB31208 4 місяці тому

    Big azz fangs though

  • @show_me_your_kitties
    @show_me_your_kitties 4 місяці тому

    I want to find the full video ❤

  • @cousin_JACK
    @cousin_JACK 4 місяці тому

    I just saw a huge one out in our yard while letting the dogs out and as soon as I saw it I brought the dogs in and went back out to kill it and it was gone, I was bewildered; like where did it go, don’t tell me it was watching me from above a tree oh heck no