Pemba Scops-Owl
NamePemba Scops-Owl
Common NamePemba Scops-Owl
Scientific NameOtus pembaensis
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)90
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly rufous-brown to grey-brown, heavily mottled and streaked with darker brown and black, providing excellent camouflage. It has bright yellow eyes, a pale facial disc, and lacks prominent ear tufts.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a soft, low, hooting 'hoo-hoo' or a series of whistling notes, often given in duets.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to Pemba Island, an island off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size (typical of scops-owls), Mottled rufous-brown to grey-brown plumage, Bright yellow eyes, Lack of prominent ear tufts, Endemic to Pemba Island
Description
The Pemba Scops-Owl is a small, nocturnal owl endemic to Pemba Island. It has cryptic, mottled brown plumage, allowing it to blend seamlessly with tree bark during the day. This owl is typically found perched quietly in trees, hunting insects and small vertebrates at night.
