The Siau scops owl is a critically endangered owl species. They live on Siau Island, north of Sulawesi, Indonesia and are (were) forest dwellers. The species is only known from a single holotype from 1866 although there have been more recent potential sightings, including one in 2017. Nonetheless, their already small, relatively barren habitat is being lost to excessive logging of the little forest present on the island and there are assumed to be very few individuals left, if any. The taxonomic arrangement for this owl has not been fully worked out. While recognized as a distinct species by the IOC, others consider it as a subspecies of either the Sulawesi scops owl or Moluccan scops owl, and it has recently been analyzed and found to be closest in morphology to Sangihe scops owl.
Region
Sangihe Islands (Siau Island), Indonesia
Typical Environment
Restricted to Siau Island, a small volcanic island north of Sulawesi. It is believed to occupy remaining native forest patches, secondary growth, and possibly forest edges near agroforestry. Because the species is poorly known, precise habitat use is uncertain, but scops owls in the region typically favor dense understory and canopy perches for nocturnal hunting. Ongoing deforestation and habitat degradation severely limit suitable territory. Volcanic activity may also periodically impact local habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Known only with certainty from a single holotype collected in 1866 on Siau Island, Indonesia, this owl may persist at very low numbers, with occasional unconfirmed reports including one in 2017. Its taxonomy is unsettled: some authorities treat it as a distinct species while others consider it a subspecies of nearby scops owls; morphologically it appears closest to the Sangihe scops owl. Its tiny range is heavily impacted by logging and agriculture on a volcanically active island, making habitat extremely limited.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between perches
Social Behavior
Likely monogamous with pairs defending small territories during breeding, similar to related scops owls. Nests presumed in tree cavities or natural holes. Activity is primarily nocturnal, roosting in dense foliage by day. Breeding timing and clutch size are unknown but probably small, as in congeners.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Presumed to give soft, repetitive hoots or whistles typical of scops owls, often delivered from elevated perches at night. Notes are likely short and evenly spaced, used for territory advertisement and pair contact.
