Mottled Wood-Owl
NameMottled Wood-Owl
Common NameMottled Wood-Owl
Scientific NameStrix ocellata
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)650
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are rufous-brown, heavily barred and mottled with blackish-brown and white. The underparts are whitish with fine, wavy dark brown barring. It features a whitish facial disc with concentric dark barring and striking dark reddish-brown eyes, lacking ear tufts.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive, resonant, hooting call, often described as a series of 'hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' notes, which can sometimes have a tremulous quality.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Indian subcontinent, found across India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Pakistan.
Identifying FeaturesLarge, dark reddish-brown eyes, Lack of ear tufts, Mottled and barred plumage, Whitish facial disc with dark concentric barring, Distinctive hooting call
Description
The Mottled Wood-Owl is a medium-sized, earless owl characterized by its prominent dark eyes and intricately mottled plumage. It is a nocturnal hunter, typically found in wooded areas where it preys on small animals.
