Shelley's Eagle Owl is a massive and extremely rare owl found in the tropical rainforests of West and Central Africa. It is one of the largest and least-known owls globally.
Where to spot
Extremely rare and localized in dense lowland tropical rainforests in West and Central Africa.
How to spot
Listen for its deep, resonant hooting calls, described as a booming 'whoo-whoo-whoo'. Due to its extreme rarity and dense habitat, seeing it requires immense luck and specialized expeditions.
When to spot
Nocturnal. Observations are exceedingly rare. The best chance is by listening for its calls after dark, which can be very difficult to pinpoint.
Where to spot
Extremely rare and localized in dense lowland tropical rainforests in West and Central Africa.
How to spot
Listen for its deep, resonant hooting calls, described as a booming 'whoo-whoo-whoo'. Due to its extreme rarity and dense habitat, seeing it requires immense luck and specialized expeditions.
When to spot
Nocturnal. Observations are exceedingly rare. The best chance is by listening for its calls after dark, which can be very difficult to pinpoint.
This elusive owl was only photographed for the first time in the wild in Ghana in 2021, highlighting its extreme rarity and secretive nature, making it a 'holy grail' for many birdwatchers.
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