African Scops-Owl
NameAfrican Scops-Owl
Common NameAfrican Scops-Owl
Scientific NameOtus senegalensis
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)52
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)80
Plumage DetailsCryptic grey-brown plumage with fine vermiculations and dark streaks, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The underparts are paler with dark streaking, and it possesses small ear tufts that are often flattened and not easily visible.
Vocalization / CallA soft, purring 'prrrrp' or 'krrroo' repeated at intervals, often described as a frog-like croak or a series of short, low hoots.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Somalia and south to South Africa, avoiding dense rainforests and arid deserts.
Identifying Featuressmall size, cryptic grey-brown plumage, yellow eyes, small ear tufts (often flattened), frog-like call
Description
A small, nocturnal owl with excellent camouflage, blending seamlessly with tree bark. It is characterized by its cryptic grey-brown plumage and prominent yellow eyes, often perching upright on branches, making it difficult to spot during the day.
