Malaita owl

The Malaita owl, also known as the Malaita boobook, is a small to medium-sized owl. It is endemic to Malaita. It was formerly considered a subspecies of the Solomons boobook.

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Distribution

Region

Southwest Pacific

Typical Environment

Occurs only on Malaita Island, where it inhabits lowland and hill rainforests, forest edges, and partially logged or secondary growth near villages. It prefers areas with large trees that offer roosting cover and nest cavities. The species can hunt along clearings, streams, and gardens adjacent to forest. Daytime roosts are usually in dense foliage, and activity peaks after dusk.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1200 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size24–28 cm

Wing Span50–60 cm

Male Weight0.22 kg

Female Weight0.26 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The Malaita owl (Malaita boobook) is a small forest owl restricted to Malaita Island in the Solomon Islands. It was recently split from the Solomons boobook complex based on vocal and morphological differences. Like many Ninox owls, it nests in tree cavities and is sensitive to loss of mature forest. Its mellow, repeating “boo-book” notes often reveal its presence long before it is seen.

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with agile, low forest flight

Social Behavior

Typically found singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Pairs maintain territories and communicate with duetted calls. Nesting is in natural tree cavities, with a small clutch and attentive parental care.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A mellow, repeated double-note reminiscent of “boo-book,” delivered at steady intervals. Also gives sharp barks and screeches when alarmed or during territorial interactions.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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