The Anjouan scops owl is an owl endemic to the island of Anjouan in the Comoro Islands.
Region
Comoro Islands, Western Indian Ocean
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Anjouan, where it occupies remnant native forest, secondary woodland, and tree-rich agroforestry including clove, coconut, and shade-grown crops. It favors areas with tall trees and cavities for nesting. The species uses forest edges and ravines and may persist in degraded habitats if some canopy structure remains. Fragmentation and ongoing deforestation constrain its range and isolate subpopulations.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Anjouan scops owl is an island-restricted owl found only on Anjouan (Ndzuwani) in the Comoro Islands. It was once feared extinct but was rediscovered in the 1990s, drawing conservation attention to Anjouan’s rapidly diminishing forests. Like many scops owls, it relies on camouflage and a repetitive hooting call to communicate at night. Habitat loss from slash-and-burn agriculture remains its primary threat.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, maneuverable flight through forest
Social Behavior
Typically encountered alone or in pairs during the breeding season. Nests in natural tree cavities or holes in older trees. Pairs defend small territories and show strong site fidelity where suitable cavities and prey are available.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are simple, repeated hoots delivered at regular intervals, often a soft, resonant note that carries through the forest at night. Pairs may duet, with spacing calls used to maintain territories.
