Preliminary investigation of vocal variation in the Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida): would vocal analysis of the four-note location call be a useful field tool for individual identification?

Abstract

Individual identification, especially in rare species, can provide managers with critical information about demographic processes. Traditionally, banding has been the only effective method of marking individuals. However, banding's drawbacks have led some researchers to suggest vocal analysis as an alternative. We explore this prospect for Mexican Spotted Owls (Strix occidentalis lucida) using a visual examination of the male four-note location call. While there appears to be a low level of within-individual variation, preliminary investigation suggests there is enough pattern overlap between different owls to caution against using visual examination of vocalizations as a field method to identify individuals.

Parent Publication

• Biology and conservation of owls of the Northern Hemisphere: 2nd International symposium

Citation

Kuntz, Wendy A.; Stacey, Peter B. 1997. Preliminary investigation of vocal variation in the Mexican Spotted Owl (Strix occidentalis lucida): would vocal analysis of the four-note location call be a useful field tool for individual identification?. In: Duncan, James R.; Johnson, David H.; Nicholls, Thomas H., eds. Biology and conservation of owls of the Northern Hemisphere: 2nd International symposium. Gen. Tech. Rep. NC-190. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station. 562-568.