Ryukyu scops owl
Insect-eaten patterns blending in with the trees.
| Scientific name | Otus elegans |
| English name | Ryukyu scops owl |
| Japanese name | 琉球木葉木菟 |
| Classification | Aves |
| Classification details | Strigiformes Strigidae |
| Full length | 22cm. |
| Distribution | South of Amami Oshima, Taiwan, Philippines. |
Characteristics
Its brown body is covered with dark spots that resemble insect holes. Its belly is a mixture of gray and brown. It has small light brown tines. Its iris is yellow. Its beak is black with long feathers at its base. Its legs are strong and featherless.
The song of the Ryukyu Scops Owl
It cries rhythmically, "co-ho-co-ho."
Ecology
They live in forests and are active after dusk. They prey on arthropods and other small animals.
Habitat
I photographed this individual on a branch along the road at night on Ishigaki Island. The pattern on its body blended in well with the trees. The bright yellow of its iris was clear. When it lowered its head, its small tines were visible.
Pictures
Introducing a picture of Ryukyu scops owl.
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