The collared scops owl is an owl which is a resident breeder in south Asia from northern Pakistan, northern India, Nepal, Bangladesh, the Himalayas east to southern China, and Taiwan. It is partially migratory, with some birds wintering in India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia. This species was formerly considered to be included within what is now separated as the Indian scops owl.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from northern Pakistan, northern India, Nepal, Bangladesh and the Himalayan foothills east through Myanmar and Thailand to southern China and Taiwan, with wintering birds reaching Sri Lanka and peninsular Malaysia. It inhabits broadleaf forests, wooded hillsides, plantations, orchards, mangroves, and well-treed urban parks and gardens. Prefers areas with dense cover for daytime roosting and open edges or light gaps for hunting. Frequently persists in secondary growth and human-modified landscapes. In winter it may descend to lower elevations and more open habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small ear-tufted owl, the collared scops owl is best recognized by the dark rim around its pale facial disk and a subtle hind-neck ‘collar.’ It was once lumped with Indian scops owl but is now treated as a separate species. Often first detected by its repetitive two-note hoots after dusk, it can roost inconspicuously in dense foliage during the day.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; silent flier
Social Behavior
Typically roosts singly or in pairs, relying on camouflage to avoid detection. Breeds in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, sometimes using nest boxes. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season; the female incubates while the male supplies food. Both adults tend young after hatching.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A repetitive two-note hoot, often rendered as a soft ‘whu-woo,’ spaced at steady intervals and carrying well in still air. Also gives quiet barks and mewing calls near the nest or when alarmed.
