Andaman Scops-Owl
NameAndaman Scops-Owl
Common NameAndaman Scops-Owl
Scientific NameOtus balli
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)42.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)92.5
Plumage DetailsMottled grey-brown upperparts with darker streaks and vermiculations provide excellent camouflage. The underparts are paler, whitish, with prominent dark streaking and barring. It has a pale facial disc, distinct pale eyebrows, and small, often inconspicuous, ear tufts.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of soft, hooting notes, often described as a repeated 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'wup-wup-wup' sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Andaman Islands, an archipelago in the Bay of Bengal, India.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Mottled grey-brown plumage, Bright yellow eyes, Small ear tufts, Endemic to Andaman Islands
Description
The Andaman Scops-Owl is a small, nocturnal owl endemic to the Andaman Islands. It exhibits cryptic plumage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with tree bark, and is characterized by its bright yellow eyes and small ear tufts. This species primarily preys on insects and small vertebrates within its forest habitat.
