African scops owl

Description:

The African Scops Owl is a very small owl with small, well developed ear-tufts that are blade-shaped when erected. Grey and brown morphs are known to exist. Colour and patterns of this species vary individually. The facial disc has fine vermiculations and a dark rim. Eyes are yellow, and the bill blackish-horn. The crown and forehead have relatively broad shaft-streaks. The ear-tufts are small, but well developed. Upperparts are grey or brownish, with darker streaks and fine vermiculations. The feathers of the mantle and upperwing-coverts are often edged rufous. The scapulars have whitish areas forming a white band across the shoulder. The flight and tail feathers are barred dark and pale, with the outer webs of the primaries having large white spots. Underparts are similar in colour to the upperparts, but often paler, with dark streaks and fine vermiculations. Tarsi are feathered to the base of the toes, which are dusky greyish-brown in colour. Claws are blackish-brown.

Habitat:

Savanna with scattered trees and thorny shrubs, semi-open woodland, park-like areas, gardens with some mature trees, and forest clearings. This owl is is generally found below 2000m elevation.

Notes:

Location Data GPS tagged.