The Pallid Scops Owl is a small, pale owl found across the Middle East and Central Asia, known for its cryptic coloration that blends with arid and semi-arid landscapes.
Where to spot
Middle East, Central Asia, to western China and northern India. Breeds in semi-desert, arid scrub, and open woodlands. Winters in parts of Arabia and Northeast Africa.
How to spot
Listen for its distinctive, mechanical-sounding 'tuk-tuk-tuk' call. Look for its very pale, greyish-sandy plumage and often inconspicuous ear tufts. Nocturnal spotlighting in arid scrub or open woodlands.
When to spot
Active during summer in breeding grounds, migratory in autumn and spring. Strictly nocturnal.
Where to spot
Middle East, Central Asia, to western China and northern India. Breeds in semi-desert, arid scrub, and open woodlands. Winters in parts of Arabia and Northeast Africa.
How to spot
Listen for its distinctive, mechanical-sounding 'tuk-tuk-tuk' call. Look for its very pale, greyish-sandy plumage and often inconspicuous ear tufts. Nocturnal spotlighting in arid scrub or open woodlands.
When to spot
Active during summer in breeding grounds, migratory in autumn and spring. Strictly nocturnal.
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 migratory in much of its northern range, traveling to warmer climates in winter, a characteristic less common among other scops owls, which tend to be more resident.
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