Otus cyprius
The Cyprus Scops Owl (*Otus cyprius*) is a small, enigmatic nocturnal raptor, endemic to the island of Cyprus, once considered a subspecies of the widespread Eurasian Scops Owl (*Otus scops*). Measuring typically 19-21 cm in length with a wingspan of 47-54 cm and weighing 60-95 grams, its cryptic grey-brown plumage provides superb camouflage against tree bark. Distinctive field marks include bright orange-yellow eyes, small ear tufts that can be erected or flattened, and fine streaking and ve...
Found in Mediterranean forests, olive groves, orchards, gardens, and open woodland, from sea level up to around 1,500 meters in elevation.
Mainly feeds on large insects such as moths, beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers, supplemented with small vertebrates like lizards and mice.
The Cyprus Scops Owl is strictly nocturnal, spending its days roosting motionless against tree trunks or within dense foliage, relying on its superb camouflage to avoid detection. Foraging primarily involves a 'sit-and-wait' strategy from a low perch, swooping down to snatch invertebrates from th...
The Cyprus Scops Owl is entirely resident and endemic to the island of Cyprus, never undertaking migratory movements. Its breeding range encompasses the entire island, from the coastal lowlands up to the highest elevations of the Troodos Mountains, typically found up to about 1,500 meters above s...
Least Concern
- The Cyprus Scops Owl is one of only two bird species truly endemic to the island of Cyprus, the other being the Cyprus Wheatear. - It was only elevated to full species status in 2015, having previously been considered a subspecies of the Eurasian Scops Owl, primarily due to its distinct vocaliz...