The Minahasa masked owl, also known as the Minahasa barn owl, Sulawesi owl or Sulawesi golden owl, is a barn owl endemic to the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia. The name is derived from the Minahassa Peninsula, where it was first described as a breeding bird; however, it is also known to live in north-central Sulawesi.
Region
Sulawesi, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits forested landscapes, including lowland and lower montane evergreen forest, forest edges, and secondary growth. It also forages over adjacent agricultural mosaics, plantations, and grasslands near woodland. Day roosts are usually in large tree cavities, dense foliage, or on sheltered cliff ledges, and it occasionally uses buildings in quieter areas. The species tends to prefer areas with a mix of cover and open spaces suitable for hunting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Minahasa barn owl or Sulawesi masked owl, it is a heart-faced barn owl restricted to Sulawesi, Indonesia. It was first noted as a breeding bird on the Minahasa Peninsula and also occurs in north-central Sulawesi. Like other Tyto owls, it flies silently thanks to specialized wing feathers and often roosts in large tree hollows or cliffs.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
silent, buoyant flight with deep wingbeats and frequent glides
Social Behavior
Typically forms monogamous pairs that maintain a territory year-round. Nests in natural tree cavities, cliff crevices, or occasionally buildings, laying a small clutch that both parents tend. Young remain near the nest area for weeks after fledging while still being fed by adults.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are dominated by long, rasping screeches and harsh hisses rather than melodious hoots. Pairs exchange shrill calls near the nest and give chattering notes during close encounters.
