Brown Boobook
NameBrown Boobook
Common NameBrown Boobook
Scientific NameNinox scutulata
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)225
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly dark brown on the head and upperparts, often with faint barring on the wings and tail. The underparts are whitish to buff, heavily marked with broad brown streaks or bars, particularly on the breast and flanks. It has bright yellow eyes set in a dark facial disc, and pale yellow feet.
Vocalization / CallIts primary call is a distinctive, often repeated, two-note 'hoo-hoo' or 'wuk-wuk' sound, which can vary slightly between subspecies and regions.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across South and Southeast Asia, ranging from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, extending north into parts of China and Korea.
Identifying Featuresbright yellow eyes, dark brown head and upperparts, heavily streaked or barred underparts, no ear tufts, nocturnal activity
Description
The Brown Boobook is a small to medium-sized owl characterized by its dark brown upperparts and heavily streaked underparts. It is a nocturnal hunter, often found perched quietly during the day in dense foliage. This species is known for its piercing yellow eyes and distinctive vocalizations.
