Otus nigrorum
The Negros Scops Owl (Otus nigrorum) is a small, enigmatic owl endemic to the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, primarily found on Negros and Panay islands. Measuring approximately 20-23 cm (7.9-9.1 in) in length, this cryptic raptor is characterized by its rufous-brown to dark brown plumage, finely vermiculated and barred, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Distinctive field marks include bright yellow eyes, a subtle pale eyebrow, and small, often inconspicuous ear tu...
This owl primarily inhabits primary and secondary lowland and montane rainforests, found at elevations typically ranging from 300 to 1,400 meters above sea level.
Its diet mainly consists of large insects such as moths, beetles, and grasshoppers, supplemented occasionally by spiders and small vertebrates like lizards. It is an ambush predator, swooping down from a perch to capture prey.
The Negros Scops Owl is strictly nocturnal, roosting quietly during the day amidst dense foliage or tree cavities, becoming active only after dusk. Its foraging strategy involves sitting motionless on a perch, scanning for prey, and then sallying out to snatch insects from the air, foliage, or th...
The Negros Scops Owl is strictly endemic to the central Philippine islands of Negros and Panay, forming a remarkably restricted geographic distribution. Its primary strongholds are in the remaining forested uplands of these two islands, particularly in mountainous regions where some primary and s...
Endangered
- The Negros Scops Owl is one of the most geographically restricted owl species in the world, endemic only to two islands in the Philippines. - Its scientific name, Otus nigrorum, literally translates to 'owl of Negros,' highlighting its primary island home. - Despite its small size, its calls ca...