The Javan owlet is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It is native to the islands of Java and Bali.
Region
Greater Sunda Islands (Java and Bali)
Typical Environment
Found in primary and secondary forest, forest edge, bamboo thickets, and well-wooded plantations. It tolerates moderately disturbed habitats and can persist in mosaic landscapes with patches of tall trees. Roosts quietly within dense foliage or cavities during the day. Most common at lower elevations but occurs into foothill zones where suitable cover remains.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Javan owlet is a small forest owl confined to the Indonesian islands of Java and Bali. It often uses old woodpecker holes or tree cavities for nesting and may venture into forest edges and plantations. Its voice is a series of clear, evenly spaced whistles that carry far at dusk and dawn.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs holding small territories. Nests in natural cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes, where the female incubates and the male provisions her. Clutch size is small, and both adults defend the nest vigorously against intruders.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A steady series of clear, evenly spaced whistles, often given at dawn and dusk. Calls can include short trills and soft hoots when interacting with a mate.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with fine barring and spotting; underparts pale with dense brown bars. Short rounded wings and a relatively short tail with narrow pale bands. Facial disc is subtle; nape typically shows contrasting patches.
Diet
Takes large insects such as beetles and moths, as well as spiders and other arthropods. Also preys on small vertebrates including geckos, small rodents, and occasionally small birds. Hunts from a perch with short sallies or pounces, using sharp hearing and vision to detect movement.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along forest edges, clearings with scattered trees, and within understorey gaps. Will hunt around plantations and village groves where perches and cover are available.
