Aegolius is a small genus of owls. Aegolius owls are small, dumpy, short tailed and broad winged, with large round facial discs. The species varies from 18-27 cm in length.
These owls take mainly rodents and other small mammals as their prey, but will also feed on birds, bats, insects and other invertebrates according to what is available.
The Aegolius owls are dark brown or black above, and whitish or buff below, marked with streaks or spots in the two northern forms. The head is large, with yellow eyes and a well-defined facial disc. The flight is strong, agile and direct.
Aegolius owls breed in tree holes laying several eggs. They have repetitive whistling calls in the breeding season.
