The Palau scops owl or Palau owl is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. Palau scops owls are dark reddish-brown with small white dots scattered across their feathers. They are endemic to the Palau Islands in the western Pacific, where they are found in woodland and lagoon trees, ravines and mangrove swamps. Palau owls nest in hollows of trees, live in groups and are territorial.
Region
Micronesia (Palau archipelago)
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Palau Islands in the western Pacific, it inhabits primary and secondary forests, coastal strand vegetation, ravines, and mangrove swamps. It uses tree cavities, broken trunks, and dense foliage for roosting and nesting. The species also forages along forest edges and in agroforestry mosaics where insect prey is abundant. It is absent from treeless islets and prefers areas with mature trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 250 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Palau scops owl is a small, island-endemic owl that occupies forests, ravines, and mangroves across the Palau archipelago. It often roosts quietly by day and becomes active at dusk, hunting mostly insects from low to mid-level perches. Pairs nest in tree cavities and maintain territories but may be seen in small family groups after fledging.
Temperament
territorial but tolerant in small family groups
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent, low-level flights between perches
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs during the breeding season and in small family groups after fledging. Nests in natural tree cavities or hollows, with both adults attending the young. Territorial calling is common at dusk and nighttime, especially around nesting sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of soft, whistled hoots and short notes, often delivered in repeated phrases at dusk. Calls carry through forest ravines and mangroves and are used for territory advertisement and pair contact.
