The Enggano scops owl is an owl endemic to Enggano Island, Indonesia.
Region
Enggano Island (off southwest Sumatra)
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout remaining lowland forests of Enggano, including primary and well-developed secondary evergreen forest. It also uses forest edges, thickets, and mixed agroforestry mosaics where tree cover remains. Birds typically roost in dense foliage by day and forage from low to mid-level perches at night. It may persist near villages if large trees and understory cover are available.
Altitude Range
0–300 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny, ear-tufted scops owl found only on Enggano Island off southwest Sumatra, Indonesia. It is strictly nocturnal and is most often detected by its series of soft, repetitive hoots given from mid-canopy perches. Like many island scops owls, it shows rufous and brown morphs that blend well with bark and leaf litter. Habitat loss on small islands can pose risks to such range-restricted species.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between perches
Social Behavior
Mostly encountered singly or in pairs during the breeding season. Likely monogamous, nesting in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes. Clutches are small, and adults are attentive, often remaining close to the nest at night.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A soft, repetitive series of hoots or whistles delivered at measured intervals, often accelerating slightly. Calls carry well in still, humid night air and are used for territory advertisement and pair contact.
Plumage
Fine mottling and streaking over brown or rufous ground coloration, with barred wings and tail and pale scapular spots that form a broken line across the shoulder. Compact, with short rounded wings and small but distinct ear tufts. Facial disk is pale with a darker rim; underparts lightly streaked.
Diet
Feeds primarily on large insects such as beetles, moths, crickets, and katydids, which are taken by sallying from low to mid-level perches. It may also take spiders and other arthropods. Occasionally captures small vertebrates like geckos or frogs when available. Prey is swallowed whole or torn into manageable pieces with the bill.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, and along paths or streams where insects concentrate. Frequently hunts from sheltered perches within understory to mid-canopy, making short sorties to capture prey. Can use semi-natural gardens and agroforestry where mature trees remain.
