Birds
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15196440240).jpg

Pel's Fishing-Owl

Pel's Fishing-Owl

100
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Not yet spotted on Fladder
Spotted
Pel's Fishing Owl is a magnificent, large owl found in riparian habitats across sub-Saharan Africa. It is a highly specialized predator of fish, crabs, and frogs.
Where to spot
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, restricted to undisturbed lowland forests and woodlands along rivers, lakes, and swamps.
How to spot
Look for its large, rufous-orange body perched on branches overhanging slow-moving water. Listen for its deep, booming 'hoo-hoo-hoo' call, often given as a duet by pairs.
When to spot
Primarily nocturnal, but often active at dusk and dawn. Can sometimes be seen fishing during the day, especially on overcast days.
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15196440240).jpg
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15196441140).jpg
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15360104596).jpg
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15382810902).jpg
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15382813642).jpg
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel.jpg
File:Scotopelia peliIbisV001P015AA.jpg
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15196440240).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15196441140).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15360104596).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15382810902).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel, at uMkhuze Game Reserve, kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (15382813642).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Pel's fishing owl, Scotopelia pel.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Scotopelia peliIbisV001P015AA.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
This owl has unique adaptations for fishing, including unfeathered legs and sharp, curved talons, allowing it to easily grasp slippery aquatic prey, a testament to its specialized diet.
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