Mountain Scops-Owl
NameMountain Scops-Owl
Common NameMountain Scops-Owl
Scientific NameOtus spilocephalus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)80
Plumage DetailsMottled brown and grey plumage with darker streaks and vermiculations, providing superb camouflage against tree bark. Underparts are paler with dark streaking. Features prominent yellow eyes and often inconspicuous ear tufts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of a series of soft, whistling or hooting notes, often described as a 'poop-poop' or 'whu-whu-whu' sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Himalayas and Southeast Asia, extending from northern India eastward through Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, southern China, Malaysia, and parts of Indonesia (Sumatra, Borneo, Java, Bali).
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Mottled brown and grey camouflage, Large yellow eyes, Nocturnal, Montane forest habitat
Description
The Mountain Scops-Owl is a small, nocturnal owl known for its excellent camouflage, blending seamlessly with tree bark. It possesses striking yellow eyes and often subtle ear tufts, inhabiting montane forests where it primarily hunts insects.
