The Itombwe owl is a species of owl in the barn owl family, Tytonidae. It is restricted to a small area in the Albertine Rift montane forests of east-central Africa.
Region
Albertine Rift montane forests
Typical Environment
Confined to moist montane evergreen forests with dense understory, including bamboo thickets, vine tangles, and forest edges. It favors steep ravines, stream gullies, and interior forest with closed canopy where it can roost and hunt under cover. The species likely uses narrow trails and small clearings for low, silent foraging flights. It is considered highly sensitive to logging, burning, and conversion of forest to agriculture.
Altitude Range
1200–2600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Itombwe owl, also known as the Congo bay-owl, is the only bay-owl in Africa and one of the least-known owls in the world. For decades it was known from very few records in the Itombwe Mountains, and it remains extremely elusive. Its heart-shaped facial disc shows a distinctive central crease typical of bay-owls. Habitat loss in its tiny range is the main threat to its survival.
Temperament
secretive and nocturnal
Flight Pattern
silent, low flights with short rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Believed to be solitary outside the breeding season, forming pairs to breed. Likely nests in tree cavities or dense vegetation, similar to other bay-owls. Roosts singly in shaded tangles within dense midstory.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, quavering whistles and breathy screeches delivered at night. Phrases may be repeated at intervals, with additional hisses or clicks as contact notes.
