African Wood-Owl
NameAfrican Wood-Owl
Common NameAfrican Wood-Owl
Scientific NameStrix woodfordii
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)60
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)280
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly reddish-brown to dark brown on the upperparts, mottled with white. The underparts are white with prominent reddish-brown barring. It has a dark facial disc, large dark eyes, and distinct white 'eyebrows' or lores above the eyes, with a pale yellow bill.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive series of deep, resonant hoots, often described as 'whoo-hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'who-who-who-who-who-who-who-who-who', accelerating towards the end.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound widely across sub-Saharan Africa, typically in woodlands, forests, and riverine habitats.
Identifying FeaturesLarge dark eyes, No ear tufts, Reddish-brown and white barred underparts, White 'eyebrows' above eyes, Mottled brown upperparts
Description
The African Wood-Owl is a medium-sized, nocturnal owl with dark eyes and no ear tufts. It typically perches upright in trees, often well-camouflaged by its mottled brown and white plumage, and is known for its distinctive hooting calls at night.
