Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl
NameSpot-bellied Eagle-Owl
Common NameSpot-bellied Eagle-Owl
Scientific NameBubo nipalensis
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)140
Length (cm)57.5
Weight (g)2200
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is dark brown to blackish-brown on the upperparts, heavily mottled and barred with buff and white. The underparts are pale buff to whitish, distinctively marked with large, round dark spots, giving it its common name. It has a prominent facial disc, large dark eyes, and a yellowish beak.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a deep, resonant, hooting 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or a series of deep, guttural hoots, often described as a low, mournful sound. It can also produce growls and screeches.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across a wide range in South and Southeast Asia, from the Himalayas (Nepal, India, Bhutan) through parts of Southeast Asia including Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and parts of China and Malaysia.
Identifying Featuresprominent outward-curving ear tufts, large dark eyes, yellow beak, pale underparts with large dark spots, dark mottled upperparts
Description
This large, powerful owl is characterized by its prominent, outward-curving ear tufts and striking spotted plumage. It is a nocturnal predator, typically found in dense forests, where it hunts a variety of prey including birds and small mammals.
