The Andaman boobook or Andaman hawk-owl is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It is endemic to the Andaman Islands.
Region
Andaman Islands, Bay of Bengal
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout the Andaman Islands in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, secondary woodland, coconut groves, and plantations. It also uses mangroves and scrubby edges, showing tolerance of human-altered habitats. By day it roosts in dense foliage; at night it hunts from low to mid-level perches along edges and clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Andaman hawk-owl, this species lacks ear tufts and has striking yellow eyes that shine brightly under torchlight. It adapts well to forest edges and even village groves, often hunting insects attracted to lights. Pairs frequently duet at night, giving the classic repeating 'boo-book' notes.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, agile flight between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely monogamous, nesting in tree cavities or natural hollows. Adults defend small territories and may respond vigorously to intruders.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of rhythmic, paired hoots resembling 'boo-book' that may be delivered in duets by a pair. Calls carry well at night and often begin at dusk, with softer contact notes exchanged at close range.
Plumage
Rufous-brown upperparts with darker mantle, and buff to whitish underparts heavily streaked with brown. Head rounded with no ear tufts; throat often paler with a contrasting white patch. Flight feathers and tail show faint barring.
Diet
Primarily hunts large insects such as beetles, moths, and orthopterans, taken by short sallies from perches. It also occasionally captures small vertebrates like geckos, small rodents, or small birds when available. Prey is swallowed whole or torn with the bill and talons.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, plantations, and village groves, often near lights where insects congregate. Uses low to mid-level perches to scan and launch short, direct attacks on prey.
