Hoots is the Sesame Street Muppet who is a saxophone-playing jazz owl.
Hoots the Owl is a musical character known for his deep, enthusiastic voice and love of jazz. Sesame Street writer Mark Saltzman described him as “the saxophone-playing jazz owl,” a concise description that separates him from the show's many other animal and monster residents. His instrument and musical style are central to his identity, not incidental costume details.
Hoots has appeared in musical sketches with Sesame Street characters and visiting performers. His repertoire connects the educational show with real musical traditions, especially jazz and improvisation. He has also been involved in recurring musical moments such as performances related to “Put Down the Duckie,” one of the program's best-known songs.
The name can be confusing because “hoot” is a general owl sound and because other owl characters exist in children's television. On Sesame Street, however, Hoots is the saxophone-playing jazz owl. His performer has changed over time: Kevin Clash performed him earlier, while Christopher Thomas Hayes has been associated with the role in later years.