Mayotte Scops Owl

Otus mayottensis

The Mayotte Scops Owl (Otus mayottensis) is a small owl species endemic to the island of Mayotte in the Indian Ocean. It is characterized by its distinct ear tufts and large, yellow eyes. This nocturnal bird preys on insects, small mammals, and birds, using its keen hearing and sharp talons to hunt in the dense forests of Mayotte. The Mayotte Scops Owl is known for its unique hooting call that resonates through the night. Due to habitat loss and predation by introduced species, the population of this owl is declining, making it a conservation concern.

Habitat: Dense forests of Mayotte