Japanese Scops-Owl
NameJapanese Scops-Owl
Common NameJapanese Scops-Owl
Scientific NameOtus semitorques
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)24.5
Weight (g)150
Plumage DetailsPlumage is predominantly mottled grey-brown with darker streaks and vermiculations, providing excellent camouflage. It has a pale facial disc bordered by a dark rim, and striking bright orange-yellow eyes. Small ear tufts are present but often flattened and not easily visible.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a soft, repeated, two-note hoot, often described as 'poo-poo' or 'hoo-hoo', with the second note slightly lower in pitch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Japanese Scops-Owl is primarily found in Japan, but its range also extends to parts of Korea, northeastern China, and southeastern Russia. It is migratory in some northern parts of its range.
Identifying Featuressmall size, cryptic mottled grey-brown plumage, bright orange-yellow eyes, small ear tufts (often flattened), nocturnal habits, distinctive two-note hoot
Description
The Japanese Scops-Owl is a small, nocturnal owl with cryptic mottled plumage, perfectly camouflaged against tree bark. It typically perches in tree hollows or dense foliage during the day, emerging at night to hunt for insects and small vertebrates.
