Mentawai Scops Owl

Otus mentawi

The Mentawai Scops Owl (Otus mentawi) is a small owl species found in the Mentawai Islands of Indonesia. It has a distinctive round facial disc with prominent ear tufts and large, yellow eyes. Its plumage is mottled brown and grey, providing excellent camouflage in its forest habitat. These owls are nocturnal hunters, preying on insects, small mammals, and birds. They are known for their distinctive hooting calls during the night. The Mentawai Scops Owl is primarily found in lowland and montane forests, where it nests in tree cavities. Due to habitat loss and limited distribution, its conservation status is currently classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN.

Habitat: Lowland and montane forests