Rufous-legged Owl Strix rufipes

Large nocturnal owl of temperate southern forests; fairly common but rarely encountered. Roosts and calls mainly in upper to middle levels of canopy, usually well hidden, but often hunts from low perches at forest edges and along roadsides. Rounded head (no “ears”) and dark brown eyes are distinctive. Compare with the larger Magellanic Horned Owl, which favors more open habitats. Loud barking and hooting song is striking and carries well on still nights.