The African scops owl is a small owl which is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in a wide range of wooded habitats including dry savanna, acacia and miombo woodlands, riverine forest, and open woodland edges. It also uses parks, gardens, and farmlands with scattered trees near human settlements. The species favors areas with cavities for nesting and perches for ambush hunting. It avoids dense closed-canopy forest and very open treeless grasslands. Local movements may occur in response to rainfall and prey abundance.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The African scops owl is a small, cryptic owl widespread across sub-Saharan Africa. It relies on superb bark-like camouflage and erectable ear tufts to avoid detection during the day. Its call is a soft, repetitive single note often mistaken for an insect, making it more often heard than seen.
An African scops owl in the Zululand Rhino Reserve
Temperament
nocturnal, secretive and territorial
Flight Pattern
short, silent flights with rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Generally solitary outside the breeding season, forming monogamous pairs during breeding. Nests in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, sometimes in nest boxes. The female typically incubates while the male provides food; both defend the territory with calls and displays.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive single-note call given at regular intervals, often likened to an insect or dripping water. Males call persistently at night to advertise territory, with notes spaced evenly and carrying surprisingly far in calm conditions.
