The golden masked owl is a barn owl endemic to the island of New Britain, Papua New Guinea. It is also known as New Britain barn owl, New Britain masked owl, Bismarck owl and Bismarck masked owl.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
Restricted to New Britain, where it inhabits primary and mature secondary rainforest, forest edges, and occasionally adjacent agroforestry mosaics. It likely roosts in large tree cavities and dense foliage during the day. The species is presumed to tolerate some disturbed habitat but is most associated with intact lowland and foothill forests. Encroachment by logging and oil palm plantations may be reducing suitable habitat. Records are sparse, suggesting a patchy distribution.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive barn-owl is endemic to New Britain in Papua New Guinea and is often called the New Britain masked owl or Bismarck masked owl. It is poorly known and rarely observed, likely because it hunts at night in dense rainforest. Ongoing deforestation and conversion to plantations may threaten its habitat. Like other Tyto owls, it flies silently and relies on acute hearing to locate prey.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
silent, buoyant flight with slow wingbeats and short glides
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely forms long-term monogamous pairs that nest in tree hollows or cavities. Young are cared for at the nest until fledging, as in other barn-owls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are presumed similar to other barn-owls: a harsh, drawn-out screech and rasping screams. It may also hiss and produce clicking or rattling calls near the nest.
