Spotted Owlet
Image: Deepa Mohan (cc-by-nc)
NameSpotted Owlet
Common NameSpotted Owlet
Scientific NameAthene brama
FamilyStrigidae
Wingspan (cm)54
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)110
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are grey-brown, heavily spotted and barred with white, particularly on the crown and back. The underparts are white with prominent brown streaking and barring. It features a distinct white facial disc, white eyebrows, and a noticeable white nuchal collar on the hindneck.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a harsh, churring 'chirurr-chirurr-chirurr' followed by a series of sharp, often duetting 'cheevak-cheevak-cheevak' notes. They also produce various hoots, screeches, and chattering calls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, cultivated areas, human habitations, gardens, groves, ruins, savanna
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across tropical Asia, from India and Sri Lanka east through Southeast Asia, including parts of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia.
Identifying Featuressmall size, stocky build, bright yellow eyes, white facial disc, white nuchal collar, spotted and barred plumage, crepuscular/diurnal activity
Description
The Spotted Owlet is a small, stocky owl with a rounded head and bright yellow eyes, often seen peeking from tree hollows or buildings. It is primarily crepuscular and nocturnal but can be active during the day, especially when disturbed or feeding young. This species is well-adapted to human-modified landscapes, frequently found in gardens, cultivated areas, and near human habitations.
