Arabian Eagle-Owl
NameArabian Eagle-Owl
Common NameArabian Eagle-Owl
Scientific NameBubo ascalaphus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)47.5
Weight (g)1650
Plumage DetailsOverall pale sandy-buff to yellowish-brown with fine dark brown vermiculations and streaks across the body. The underparts are paler with fine barring. It has a pale facial disc, often bordered by darker feathers, and prominent dark-tipped ear tufts. The eyes are a striking bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a deep, resonant 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'hoo-hoo-hooo', with the second note often emphasized. It also produces various hoots, growls, and hisses.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, including countries such as Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Sudan, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, and UAE.
Identifying Featuresprominent ear tufts, bright yellow eyes, pale sandy plumage, nocturnal, arid habitat
Description
The Arabian Eagle-Owl is a medium-sized owl characterized by its prominent ear tufts and bright yellow eyes. Its plumage is generally pale sandy-buff, finely vermiculated and streaked with darker brown, providing excellent camouflage in its arid habitats. This nocturnal predator primarily hunts small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
