The oriental scops owl is a scops owl species of native to South and Southeast Asia.
Region
South, Southeast and East Asia
Typical Environment
Found from the Indian subcontinent and Sri Lanka through Myanmar, Thailand, and Indochina to southern China, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan. Northern and northeastern breeders migrate south to winter in Southeast Asia, while many populations in South Asia are resident. It occupies open woodlands, forest edges, bamboo, orchards, parks, and gardens, and it tolerates human-modified landscapes better than many owls. The species generally avoids dense, unbroken primary forest, favoring patchy cover and edges where hunting is easier.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small owl is widespread across South, Southeast, and East Asia and is famous for its two main color morphs—grey and rufous—that blend perfectly with tree bark. Its soft, repeated single-note call is highly ventriloquial, making the bird tricky to locate at night. Many northern populations migrate seasonally, while southern birds are resident. It often roosts close to trunks, relying on camouflage rather than flight to avoid detection.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
silent, short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically roosts alone by day and becomes active at dusk. Pairs form during the breeding season and nest in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes. Clutches usually contain several eggs, and both parents attend to the young. Outside breeding, it remains largely solitary and inconspicuous.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A soft, monotone single-note hoot—often rendered as a repeated “poo” or “peeu”—spaced at steady intervals. Males call persistently to advertise territory, and the ventriloquial quality makes the source difficult to pinpoint.
