The African Scops Owl is a small, widespread owl across sub-Saharan Africa. It is a common nocturnal resident of savannas, woodlands, and gardens.
Where to spot
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Somalia and south to South Africa. Inhabits savannas, woodlands, acacia scrub, and urban gardens.
How to spot
Listen for its distinctive, soft, purring 'prrr-prrr-prrr' or 'krr-krr-krr' call. Look for its small size, mottled grey-brown plumage, and prominent ear tufts. Nocturnal spotlighting in suitable wooded habitats.
When to spot
Strictly nocturnal. Most vocal from dusk until midnight.
Where to spot
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal to Somalia and south to South Africa. Inhabits savannas, woodlands, acacia scrub, and urban gardens.
How to spot
Listen for its distinctive, soft, purring 'prrr-prrr-prrr' or 'krr-krr-krr' call. Look for its small size, mottled grey-brown plumage, and prominent ear tufts. Nocturnal spotlighting in suitable wooded habitats.
When to spot
Strictly nocturnal. Most vocal from dusk until midnight.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This owl is known for its remarkable ability to mimic the calls of other birds, especially during territorial disputes, adding to its cryptic nature and making it harder to distinguish.
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