Predation of fish by black-capped screech-owl, Megascops atricapilla (Temminck, 1822) (Strigiformes: Strigidae)

Owls are efficient hunters that depend on an immense variety of food sources. While many favor birds, small mammals, or invertebrates, only a few species have been documented to include fish in their diet. In Brazil, only two owl species, Athene cunicularia, and Megascops santaecatarinae, are documented fish consumers. Here, we present the first documented record of Megascops atricapilla preying on fish, recorded in southern Brazil. The scarcity of such records in some species among owls is likely attributed to limited knowledge rather than rarity. This finding sheds light on the varied dietary practices of owls and emphasizes the need for further research into their feeding habits.

Automated summary

This article presents the first documented record of Megascops atricapilla preying on fish in southern Brazil and emphasizes the need for further research into the dietary habits of owls.