The spot-bellied eagle-owl, also known as the forest eagle-owl is a large bird of prey with a formidable appearance. It is a forest-inhabiting species found in the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. This species is considered part of a superspecies with the barred eagle-owl, which looks quite similar but is allopatric in distribution.
Region
Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Himalayan foothills of Nepal and northern India east through Bangladesh, Myanmar, and into Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, with scattered records in southern China. Prefers dense primary and mature secondary forests, including evergreen and moist deciduous types. Often found near forest streams, ravines, and steep hill country with tall canopy and large trees for roosting and nesting. Uses forest edges and clearings for hunting but retreats to thick cover by day.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the forest eagle-owl, it forms a superspecies with the barred eagle-owl, from which it is allopatric. Its deep, booming hoots carry long distances through dense forest at night. A powerful ambush predator, it can take surprisingly large prey, including gamebirds and other owls, yet it is often extremely secretive and seldom seen.
A painting of the spot-bellied eagle-owl.
A spot-bellied eagle-owl in Sri Lanka, which are similar to mainland birds but smaller.
An adult Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl seen right after heavy rains in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka.
A spot-bellied eagle-owl in the Biligiriranga Hills of south India.
A young spot-bellied eagle-owl, which tend to be paler than adults.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
powerful, silent flier with deep wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely monogamous; nests in large tree cavities, on broken snag tops, or occasionally in abandoned stick nests. Lays a small clutch (often 1–2 eggs) and both adults defend the territory vigorously. Roosts by day in dense foliage or against tree trunks for camouflage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Deep, resonant hoots in a series, often rendered as far-carrying 'whoo-uh' phrases with long pauses. Also gives harsh screeches and gruff barks when alarmed or near the nest. Duets between pairs may occur at dusk and dawn.
