The Sulawesi scops owl is an owl found on the Sulawesi island of Indonesia.
Region
Sulawesi and adjacent islands (Wallacea, Indonesia)
Typical Environment
This species inhabits primary and secondary evergreen forests, forest edges, and wooded plantations across Sulawesi. It is also found in mangroves and scrubby habitats near villages where sufficient tree cover remains. The owl typically roosts close to trunks or in dense foliage during the day, relying on cryptic plumage for concealment. At night it hunts along forest trails, clearings, and edges, frequently returning to favored perches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Sulawesi scops owl is a small, nocturnal owl endemic to the island of Sulawesi and nearby islets in Indonesia. It often shows brown or rufous color morphs that help it camouflage against tree bark. Its simple, repeated whistles are key for locating it in dense forest at night. Like many scops owls, it relies on stealth and perching to ambush prey.
Otus manadensis (right), John Gerrard Keulemans
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent, agile glides between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs during the breeding season. Pairs maintain small territories and nest in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, laying a small clutch. Roosts quietly by day and becomes active soon after dusk.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A simple, clear whistle repeated at steady intervals, often a single or double note. Males call persistently at night to advertise territory, and pairs may duet softly at close range.
Plumage
Cryptic mottled and streaked plumage with fine vermiculation; often shows brown or rufous morphs with pale scapular spots.
Diet
Feeds mainly on large insects such as moths, beetles, crickets, and katydids. It also occasionally takes spiders and small vertebrates like geckos or frogs. Hunting is typically from a low to mid-level perch with short sallies to capture prey.
Preferred Environment
Forages along forest edges, trails, and clearings where prey is more easily detected. It may also hunt near lights in villages that attract insects, provided trees are nearby for cover.
