The cinnabar boobook, also known as the cinnabar hawk-owl, is a hawk-owl endemic to the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. It was described as a new species to science by American ornithologist Pamela C. Rasmussen in 1999 based on a single specimen collected by Frank Rozendaal from Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park on Minahassa Peninsula, northern Sulawesi, in 1985. Subsequently, it has also been observed in Lore Lindu National Park in central Sulawesi, greatly expanding the known habitat range.
Region
Sulawesi (Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in evergreen forest from foothill to montane zones, including primary and well-structured secondary forest. It favors interior forest and edges with tall canopy, often near ravines and along ridgelines. Birds are most often detected within protected areas such as Bogani Nani Wartabone and Lore Lindu National Parks. It roosts within dense foliage and likely nests in tree cavities, relying on mature trees.
Altitude Range
unknown
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The cinnabar boobook (cinnabar hawk-owl) is a striking, reddish-toned boobook endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia. Described to science in 1999 from a specimen collected in 1985, it long eluded observers and remains sparsely recorded. Its rich cinnamon plumage is unusual among Ninox owls and helps it blend into the dim, mossy forests it inhabits.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent glides through forest
Social Behavior
Typically solitary outside the breeding season and defends territories in dense forest. Likely nests in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes and forms monogamous pairs. Young are probably attended by both parents and remain near the nest area until fledged.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, high-pitched whistles and soft hoots in repeated sequences, usually at night. Phrases are spaced and can accelerate or rise slightly in pitch, carrying well in montane forest.
