Marsh Owl
NameMarsh Owl
Common NameMarsh Owl
Scientific NameAsio capensis
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)90
Length (cm)34
Weight (g)400
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown with pale buff streaking and spotting, providing camouflage. Underparts are paler, buffy-white with prominent dark brown streaking. The facial disc is pale buff, contrasting with the dark brown around the eyes and a dark bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a low, soft hoot, often repeated, and a harsh, raspy 'karr-karr' call, especially when disturbed or in flight.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across much of sub-Saharan Africa, including Madagascar, and a disjunct population in Morocco.
Identifying FeaturesDark eyes, Pale facial disc, Mottled brown plumage, Often seen hunting low over open ground, Long wings in flight
Description
The Marsh Owl is a medium-sized owl characterized by its dark eyes set within a pale, well-defined facial disc. It typically inhabits open grasslands and wetlands, often hunting low over the ground during twilight hours.
