Pharaoh Eagle-Owl
NamePharaoh Eagle-Owl
Common NamePharaoh Eagle-Owl
Scientific NameBubo ascalaphus
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)125
Length (cm)47.5
Weight (g)2300
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is generally sandy-buff to tawny-brown, heavily mottled and barred with dark brown, providing excellent camouflage in rocky desert environments. The underparts are paler with fine dark barring, and it features a pale facial disc bordered by dark feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a deep, resonant hoot, often described as a 'hoo-hoo' or 'hoo-hooo', typically given at dusk or dawn.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across North Africa, from Morocco eastward through the Sahara and Sahel regions to Egypt and Sudan, extending into the Arabian Peninsula and parts of the Middle East including Israel, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Prominent ear tufts, Bright orange eyes, Sandy-buff mottled plumage, Nocturnal
Description
The Pharaoh Eagle-Owl is a large nocturnal raptor characterized by its prominent ear tufts and striking orange eyes. It typically inhabits arid and semi-arid regions, hunting a variety of small to medium-sized prey.
