Otus mirus
The Mindanao Scops Owl, Otus mirus, is a captivatingly cryptic and small owl, endemic to the montane forests of Mindanao in the southern Philippines. Measuring approximately 19-20 cm in length, it exhibits two primary plumage morphs: a rufous-brown and a grayish-brown, both intricately mottled, streaked, and vermiculated to provide exceptional camouflage against tree bark. Key field marks include bright yellow eyes that stand out against its finely patterned facial disc, and small, often inco...
Found exclusively in primary montane and mossy forests, often along forest edges, at elevations typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 meters above sea level.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of moths, beetles, grasshoppers, and other small invertebrates, caught by hawking from a perch or gleaning from vegetation.
Strictly nocturnal, the Mindanao Scops Owl roosts silently during the day, pressed against tree trunks or in dense foliage, relying on its camouflage. Its foraging strategy primarily involves sallying from a perch to hawk flying insects or gleaning invertebrates from leaves and bark in the unders...
The Mindanao Scops Owl is strictly endemic to the island of Mindanao in the southern Philippines. Its distribution is fragmented across several major mountain ranges, including Mount Kitanglad, Mount Apo, Mount Malindang, Mount Matutum, and other high-altitude peaks throughout central Mindanao. T...
Near Threatened
- The Mindanao Scops Owl is found only on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines, making it a true endemic treasure. - Despite its relatively small size, its vocalizations are surprisingly resonant and carry well through the dense montane forests. - It was first scientifically described in 190...