The Romblon boobook or Romblon hawk-owl, is a species of owl in the family Strigidae that is endemic to the Philippines. It is only found on the islands of Tablas, Sibuyan and Romblon. It was previously known as a subspecies of the Philippine hawk-owl, but was reclassified in 2012, as voice and other evidence suggested it was a distinct species. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Central Philippines (Romblon Islands)
Typical Environment
It inhabits tropical moist lowland and foothill forests, including mature primary forest and well-structured secondary growth. The species often hunts along forest edges, clearings, and riparian strips, and may venture into lightly wooded farmland at night. Daytime roosts are typically in dense foliage within the mid to upper canopy. It is sensitive to extensive deforestation and avoids highly degraded habitats.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Romblon boobook was split from the Philippine hawk-owl complex in 2012 after its distinctive duet-like calls and morphology were documented. It occurs only on Tablas, Sibuyan, and Romblon islands, where it is most often detected by voice at night. Like many small Ninox owls, it lacks ear tufts and relies on stealthy perch-and-pounce hunting in forest edges. Ongoing forest loss within its tiny range is the main threat.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Typically encountered as territorial pairs that duet at night, especially during the breeding season. Nests are presumed in tree cavities or hollows lined with debris, with a small clutch. Adults defend territories vigorously and use repeated song phrases to advertise occupancy.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A distinctive series of loud, resonant whistles given in male–female duets; phrases often have a rising, barking quality. Calls carry far through forest at night and are the primary means of detection.
Plumage
Warm brown upperparts with pale spotting, and underparts buff to whitish with brown streaking and fine barring. Facial disk is brown with paler eyebrow and a contrasting white throat patch. Feathers are soft for silent flight and legs are densely feathered.
Diet
Feeds mainly on large insects such as beetles, katydids, and moths, taken by perch-and-pounce. It also captures small vertebrates including geckos, frogs, and occasionally small rodents or birds. Prey is swallowed whole or torn into manageable pieces with the bill.
Preferred Environment
Hunts from low to mid-level perches along forest edges, trails, and river corridors. It may forage near forested agriculture and village fringes where prey is abundant, provided tall trees remain.
