The speckled boobook or speckled hawk owl, also called the Oriental hawk-owl, is a small owl at 17–20 cm (6.7–7.9 in). It is a reddish-brown hawk-owl with a white-spotted head, back and wings, a white throat patch, black facial disk, dark brown eyes and white eyebrows.
Region
Sulawesi and nearby islands (Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits primary and secondary lowland to lower montane forests, including forest edges and riverine corridors. It tolerates selectively logged forest and older secondary growth where large trees provide cavities. Around villages it may hunt along forest margins and gardens at night. Dense foliage and mid-story perches are important for its ambush-hunting style.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known as the speckled hawk-owl, this small boobook is a forest-dwelling owl that hunts with swift, hawk-like sallies from perches. It typically nests in natural tree cavities and relies on dense canopy for cover. Its repeated, mellow hoots carry at night and help pairs keep contact.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides through forest
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season when pairs defend territories. Nests in tree cavities, often old woodpecker holes, and both adults attend the young. Crepuscular and nocturnal activity peaks around dusk and early night.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow hoots and whistles, often delivered in evenly spaced pairs or short sequences. Calls can accelerate slightly and carry well through forest at night.
Plumage
Reddish-brown overall with fine white spotting on the head, back, and wings; underparts lightly streaked or mottled. It shows a contrasting white throat patch beneath a darker facial area. Feathers appear compact and smooth, aiding a sleek, hawk-like profile.
Diet
Feeds mainly on large insects such as beetles, moths, katydids, and grasshoppers. It will also take small vertebrates when available, including small lizards, frogs, and the occasional mouse or small bird. Hunting is typically from a perch, sallying out to snatch prey from foliage or the ground.
Preferred Environment
Hunts along forest edges, clearings, trails, and stream margins where prey is more easily detected. It may also forage near village lights that attract insects, while retreating to denser cover to consume prey.
