A medium-sized true owl, it has a round head, lacking ear tufts.

Its distribution is limited to highland regions of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.

It is classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, although it is considered endangered in Mexico.

[3] The facial disc of the species is a dull brownish-white or pale ochre in color, and is slightly darker around the eyes.

[6] The upperparts of the bird are covered by sparse bars colored "ochraceous buff", that become smaller and less regular on the scapulars, lower back, and rump.

The undertail coverts are buff colored, with some dark streaks on the longest feathers.

[6] Chicks are whitish, while juveniles are cinnamon-brown with yellowish or white barring and a brownish facial disc.

[6] The species is visually most similar to the barred owl, found in Mexico, Canada, and the United States.

[6] The fulvous owl is found in highland regions in the Mexican states of Chiapas Oaxaca, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador.

A montane species, it is found at altitudes between 1,200 and 3,100 meters (3,900 and 10,200 ft) above sea level.

As a result of its large range and substantial population, it is classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN.

An individual was observed attempting to catch a highland guan, while the feathers of a blue-throated motmot were found below the nest of another.

The incubation period is between 28 and 30 days long, and the number of eggs in a clutch varies between two and five, but generally is either two or three.