New Britain Boobook
NameNew Britain Boobook
Common NameNew Britain Boobook
Scientific NameNinox odiosa
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)125
Plumage DetailsDark brown upperparts heavily spotted with white, especially on the crown, nape, and wing-coverts. Underparts are rufous-brown with white spots. The facial disc is dark brown, framed by prominent white eyebrows, and features bright yellow eyes.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is typically a series of soft, hooting notes, often described as a repeated 'whoo-whoo' or 'hoo-hoo-hoo'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Britain and Umboi islands, which are part of Papua New Guinea.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size for an owl, Dark brown plumage with extensive white spotting, Bright yellow eyes, Prominent white eyebrows, Restricted to New Britain and Umboi islands
Description
The New Britain Boobook is a small, dark owl endemic to New Britain and Umboi islands. It is characterized by its dark brown plumage heavily spotted with white, prominent yellow eyes, and a rather fierce expression. This nocturnal bird typically inhabits forests, hunting insects and small vertebrates.
