Sjöstedt's barred owlet, also known as Sjöstedt's owlet, is a species of owl in the family Strigidae from west central Africa.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill evergreen rainforest, gallery forest, and degraded or secondary woodlands, especially where tall trees remain. It is regularly found along forest edges, clearings, and riparian corridors, and will use shade-grown cocoa or coffee plantations. The species prefers dense cover for roosting but hunts along more open understories and edges. It occupies territories year-round and uses natural cavities for nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Sjöstedt's barred owlet is a small forest owl of West–Central Africa that is often detected by its rhythmic, whistled toots before it is seen. It has finer, darker barring than the African barred owlet and a distinct white throat patch. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, and agroforestry mosaics, where it hunts from low perches. Some authorities have treated it as a subspecies of African barred owlet, but many now recognize it as a separate species based on voice and plumage.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, maintaining small territories throughout the year. Nests in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, with the female incubating while the male supplies food. Roosts quietly in dense foliage by day and becomes more vocal at dusk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, mellow whistles given in steady or slightly accelerating sequences, often delivered at dusk and pre-dawn. Also emits soft trills and short hoots during territorial exchanges and pair contact.
