The Ryukyu scops owl or elegant scops owl is a small rufous-brown owl with a brown face disk and a cinnamon facial ruff. The bill is olive-grey and it has yellow eyes.
Region
Ryukyu Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical evergreen broadleaf forests, secondary woodland, forest edges, and mixed farmland-woodland mosaics. It tolerates lightly settled areas with scattered trees and shelterbelts and may hunt along roadsides at night. Roosts in dense thickets, bamboo, or vine tangles and uses cavities in mature trees for nesting. On small islands it occupies most wooded habitats where suitable cavities and prey are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the elegant scops owl, it is a small island-dwelling owl with prominent ear tufts and striking yellow eyes. It often roosts low in dense foliage during the day and becomes active soon after dusk. The species nests in tree cavities and will use old woodpecker holes or natural hollows. Island populations can differ subtly in voice, which is useful for field identification at night.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent, buoyant flight
Social Behavior
Typically roosts singly; pairs form during the breeding season. Nests in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes with a small clutch, and the male provisions the incubating female. Young fledge from cavities and remain near the nest area for several weeks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, repeated single-note hoots or a series of low whistles, often spaced evenly and carrying well at night. Territorial calls accelerate slightly in series and may include short trills.
Plumage
Small rufous-brown owl with fine streaking and mottling; brown facial disk with a cinnamon facial ruff and small but distinct ear tufts.
Diet
Primarily takes large insects such as beetles, moths, crickets, and grasshoppers. Also captures spiders and other arthropods, and occasionally small lizards, frogs, or small rodents. Hunts from low to mid-level perches with short sallies or drops to the ground, and may glean prey from foliage and trunks.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, clearings, plantations, and near rural gardens where insects are abundant. Frequently hunts along quiet roads and trails at night.
