A common call of Saw-whet Owls in the non-breeding season is a subdued
"skiew." This call is much less piercing than a similiar call of the Boreal
Owl. It might be better transcribed as "tchew."

Another common call is a horse-like whinny: "mee...ahhhh!" I hear starlings
give a similar call frequently. I think the Sky Rats are imitating horses
though, rather than Saw-whets.

These calls are given infrequently...most often at dusk when the owls are
getting ready to leave their day-time roost to go foraging. Both these calls
are frequently given in response to a taped playback call of their more
familiar tootings. Gaining familiarity with these calls really helps sort
out the various shrieks, wails, and barks heard in the night.

Andy Stepniewski
Wapato WA