How big is the crested owl?

It measures 15 to 17 inches (38 to 43 cm) in length, spans 35 to 39 inches (90 to 100 cm) in wingspan, and weighs 14 to 21 oz (400 to 600 g).

What is the purpose of its long white ear tufts?

The long white tufts break up its head outline when roosting rigid against tree trunks by day and serve as visual communication markers in moonlit understories.

How does it achieve silent flight?

Comb-like serrations on primary wing feathers and a velvety down surface break air turbulence into silent micro-currents, silencing flight.

Where can you spot crested owls?

During night walking tours around Sirena Biological Station in Corcovado and forested Sierpe riverbanks.

The Crested Owl in Costa Rica: Size, Weight, Silent Flight & Night Habits

The crested owl (Lophostrix cristata) is one of the most spellbinding nocturnal birds of prey dwelling in the primary jungles of Corcovado and the dense gallery forests of Sierpe, instantly recognized by its piercing amber eyes and long white ear plumes that resemble horns of ancient wisdom.

📋 Quick Species Profile: Crested Owl

Scientific Name: Lophostrix cristata

Total Length: 15 to 17 in (38 to 43 cm)

Wingspan: 35 to 39 in (90 to 100 cm)

Adult Weight: 14 to 21 oz (400 to 600 g)

Diet: Giant rainforest katydids, beetles, treefrogs, roosting bats

Acoustic Stealth: 100% silent flight via fringed, velvety feather edges

Cryptic Roosting: Stiff vertical daytime posture mimicking broken tree snags

Sighting Probability: Moderate on guided Sirena overnight night walks

Nocturnal Senses & Cryptic Camouflage

During daylight hours, the crested owl roosts stiffly against thin understory tree trunks with eyes narrowed to slits. Its white ear tufts resemble lichen patterns on broken branches, rendering it invisible to passing hawks.

At night, vertically asymmetrical ear openings allow the owl to triangulate the sound of prey scratching under leaves with pinpoint 3D acoustic precision.

You Could Spot It on the Corcovado Sirena Overnight Tour (2 Days) ($550 USD)

* Nocturnal wildlife is wild and protected; certified naturalist guides use warm filtered lamps for ethical viewing.