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Camiguin boobook

Camiguin boobook

Wikipedia

The Camiguin boobook or Camiguin hawk-owl is an owl species resident to the Camiguin island in the Philippines. It is the only owl in the country with greenish-yellow or grayish eyes. It was previously known as a subspecies of the Philippine hawk-owl, but was reclassified in 2012, as voice and other evidence suggested it a distinct species. Its native name is kugkug

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Distribution

Region

Philippine Archipelago

Typical Environment

This species is restricted to the island of Camiguin off the northern coast of Mindanao. It inhabits primary and secondary lowland to montane forest, forest edges, and wooded mosaics including agroforestry areas with tall trees. It can persist in semi-disturbed habitats provided there are suitable perches and cavity-bearing trees for nesting. Protected forest on the Timpoong–Hibok-Hibok range is a stronghold.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size20–25 cm
Wing Span40–50 cm
Male Weight0.12 kg
Female Weight0.14 kg
Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The Camiguin boobook, or Camiguin hawk-owl, is confined to Camiguin Island in the Philippines and is noted as the country's only owl with greenish-yellow to grayish eyes. Formerly treated as a subspecies of Philippine hawk-owl, it was elevated to full species in 2012 based on distinctive vocalizations and morphology. Locally it is known as “kugkug,” reflecting its characteristic call. It typically duets at night, with a rhythmic, bouncing-ball sequence of hoots.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with agile maneuvering through forest

Social Behavior

Usually encountered as territorial pairs that duet at night, especially during the breeding season. Nests are likely placed in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes in mature trees. Clutches are small, and both parents participate in territory defense and provisioning.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

The call is a rhythmic series of accelerating hoots, often described as a bouncing-ball pattern. Pairs often duet, with the female’s notes higher and slightly softer, creating an alternating sequence that carries well through forest at night.

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