The dusky eagle-owl is an owl species in the family Strigidae that is widespread in South and Southeast Asia. The type specimen used to describe the species was collected on the Coromandel Coast, which was used for the specific epithet. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The species's extent of occurrence is estimated at 9,250,000 km2 (3,570,000 sq mi). However, volunteer generated databases such as eBird.org suggest that the available extent of occurrence is a vast over-estimate.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Found from the Indian subcontinent through Myanmar to mainland Southeast Asia, it favors open woodlands, dry and riverine forests, groves, and large trees in agricultural and peri-urban landscapes. It typically avoids dense rainforest interiors but uses edges, floodplains, and plantations where tall roost trees are available. The species often occurs near wetlands and along rivers, canals, and reservoirs. Large old trees are important for roosting and nesting, and it may persist in mosaics of farmland and scattered woodland if disturbance is low.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The dusky eagle-owl is a large, crepuscular owl with prominent ear tufts and striking yellow eyes. Its specific name refers to India’s Coromandel Coast, where the type specimen was collected. It often reuses stick nests built by other large birds, and pairs give resonant duets that carry far on still nights.
A dusky eagle-owl pair in Faridabad, Haryana, India
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
powerful, silent wingbeats with low, direct flights between perches; occasional short glides
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs that maintain territories year-round. Pairs nest in large trees, often reusing old stick nests of raptors or crows; clutch size is small, usually 1–2 eggs. Monogamous pair bonds with the male provisioning the incubating female.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A deep, booming series of hoots, often given as a far-carrying duet between male and female. Calls are most frequent at dusk and before dawn, with measured intervals between notes. Alarm notes are harsher and more guttural.
Plumage
Overall dusky brown with coarse streaking below; upperparts dark brown with mottling, underparts buffy with bold dark vertical streaks. Facial disc pale with a darker rim, and ear tufts are long and conspicuous. Feathers of the legs are dense, giving a heavy, shaggy look.
Diet
Primarily preys on small to medium-sized mammals such as rats, mice, and squirrels, as well as birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It also takes large insects and occasionally bats. Hunting is from exposed perches or in low, purposeful flights, striking prey on the ground or from branches. It swallows smaller prey whole and tears larger items with its strong bill.
Preferred Environment
Hunts along forest edges, riparian corridors, open fields with scattered trees, village groves, and plantation margins. It often selects perches with wide views, including tall trees, pylons, or structures near wetlands where prey is abundant.
