The Annobón scops owl is an owl endemic to the Equatorial Guinea island of Annobón. The current population is estimated to be around 50-249 individuals, with the population declining due to habitat alteration and destruction. When describing the species in 1903, Tommaso Salvadori noted that the birds were abundant in wooded areas at altitudes of 400–500 metres on the island. Few sightings of the bird have been reported since then.
Region
Gulf of Guinea islands, eastern Atlantic
Typical Environment
Occurs only on the volcanic island of Annobón, where it favors native evergreen and secondary woodland, dense thickets, and forest edges. It roosts by day in well-shaded foliage and uses tree cavities or natural holes for nesting. Historical notes place it as most frequent in wooded slopes at mid-elevations, and it likely persists in the least disturbed interior patches. Agricultural expansion, fuelwood collection, and small-scale logging reduce available habitat on this small island.
Altitude Range
0–600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive scops owl is confined to the tiny oceanic island of Annobón in Equatorial Guinea, making it one of the most range-restricted owls on Earth. It was described in 1903 by Tommaso Salvadori, who reported it as common in mid-elevation forests; since then it has been rarely observed. Habitat alteration and forest loss are the principal threats, and the global population is thought to be extremely small. Protecting remaining wooded habitats and nest sites is crucial for its survival.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides through dense vegetation
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely monogamous, nesting in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes when available. Clutch size is presumed small, and adults defend territories with persistent vocalizations at night.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive series of single hoots or whistles, delivered at regular intervals from a concealed perch. Calls carry well in still night air and often accelerate slightly when interacting with a neighbor.
Plumage
Compact scops owl with cryptic, finely mottled and streaked plumage that blends with bark; usually shows rufous to brown morphs with subtle grey tones. Feathering is soft and dense with fine vermiculations and darker shaft streaks.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nocturnal insects such as moths, beetles, and orthopterans, supplemented by spiders and occasionally small lizards or frogs. Hunts from low to mid-level perches, sallying to snatch prey from foliage or the ground. Prey is swallowed whole or torn into manageable pieces.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, interior clearings, and shrubby slopes where insect activity is high. Also hunts around small plantations and secondary growth when cover is available.
