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

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.

Diet

Preys primarily on small to medium mammals such as rats, squirrels, and bats. Also takes birds including gamebirds and occasionally other owls, as well as reptiles and large insects. Hunts from a concealed perch, dropping onto prey with a short, powerful glide. Capable of tackling relatively large prey compared with its body size.

Preferred Environment

Hunts along forest edges, clearings, stream corridors, and on forested slopes where visibility opens beneath the canopy. Frequently uses tall perch sites overlooking trails or gullies. Avoids open country far from substantial tree cover.