Andaman Masked Owl
NameAndaman Masked Owl
Common NameAndaman Masked Owl
Scientific NameTyto alba deroepstorffi
FamilyTytonidae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)36
Weight (g)425
Plumage DetailsFeatures a prominent dark brown to blackish facial disc rim surrounding a pale, almost white, heart-shaped facial disc. The eyes are dark. Upperparts are dark rufous-brown with fine white spots and darker mottling, while the underparts are buffy-white to rufous-buff with fine dark spots.
Vocalization / CallEmits a distinctive, eerie, hissing shriek, often prolonged. Also produces various hisses, snores, and clicks, particularly when agitated or in communication.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Andaman Islands, India.
Identifying Featuresheart-shaped facial disc, dark eyes, dark rufous-brown upperparts, spotted underparts, dark facial disc rim
Description
This medium-sized nocturnal owl is characterized by its distinctive heart-shaped facial disc and dark eyes. It is known for its darker, more rufous plumage compared to other Barn Owl subspecies, and it primarily hunts small mammals in its island habitat.
