The Mindanao boobook or Mindanao hawk-owl is a species of owl in the family Strigidae that is endemic to the Philippines on the island of Mindanao. It was previously known as a subspecies of the Philippine hawk-owl, but was reclassified in 2012, as voice and other evidence suggested it a distinct species. It is found in tropical moist lowland forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Southern Philippines (Mindanao and adjacent islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs across Mindanao and nearby islands in primary and secondary tropical moist forests. It favors lowland and foothill forest but may persist in selectively logged areas, forest edges, and riparian corridors. It uses dense canopy and midstory perches to hunt and roost. Occasionally recorded near agroforestry mosaics adjacent to forest. Nesting is typically in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes within large trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Mindanao boobook, or Mindanao hawk-owl, was split from the Philippine hawk-owl complex in 2012 based primarily on distinctive vocalizations and subtle plumage differences. Pairs often duet at night with striking, far-carrying calls. Like many Philippine forest owls, it is sensitive to deforestation and survives best where mature or well-regenerated forest remains.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, silent sallies between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season when pairs defend territories. Nests in tree cavities; clutch size is small and both parents attend young. Roosts quietly by day in dense foliage. Pair bonds are reinforced through frequent vocal duets at night.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Distinctive, far-carrying two-note and multi-note calls, often delivered as male–female duets. The male typically gives lower-pitched hoots while the female responds with higher, sharper notes. Calls accelerate and intensify during territorial interactions.
Plumage
Rich brown upperparts with fine mottling and a contrastingly streaked to barred whitish-buff underside. The face shows a defined pale brow and lores with a darker facial disk, and a small whitish throat patch. Feathers are compact and soft, aiding silent flight.
Diet
Primarily hunts large insects such as beetles, katydids, crickets, and moths. Will also take small vertebrates including geckos, small rodents, and occasionally small birds when available. Hunts from a perch, scanning quietly before making short dashes to seize prey on foliage, trunks, or the ground.
Preferred Environment
Most active along forest edges, clearings, and trails where prey is easier to detect. Frequently uses midstory and lower canopy perches overlooking gaps, streams, or understory glades. Foraging is concentrated near intact or semi-intact forest.
