Ryukyu scops owl
| Scientific name | Otus elegans |
| English name | Ryukyu scops owl |
| Japanese name | 琉球木葉木菟 |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Genus | Otus |
| Species | elegans |
| Subspecies | -- |
| 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.
Picture book
Orbicular batfish
Juveniles camouflage on dead leaves....... Read more
Indo-Pacific sergeant
yellow back with 5 horizontal stripes...... Read more
Golden-ringed dragonfly
Yellow stripes and bright green compound eyes. It takes about 5 years to reach adulthood....... Read more
Balkal Teal
A face with a black, green, and brown Tomoe-shaped pattern...... Read more