Small owl, active during the day and night. Very similar in plumage to other pygmy-owls, but limited range at high elevation (mostly above 1000m) is a good starting point. Overall brown to rufous with white stripes on belly; look for small white spots on crown and bars on flanks. Sexes alike. Found singly or in pairs in montane forests. Listen for whistled song of doubled notes given on an even pitch.