The Torotoroka scops owl is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It is endemic to western parts of Madagascar.
Region
Western and southern Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs in dry deciduous forest, spiny thicket, scrub, and wooded savanna, often near forest edges and gallery forests along rivers. It tolerates lightly degraded habitats and may hunt around villages where insects are attracted to lights. Day roosts are typically in dense foliage or against tree trunks where its mottled plumage provides excellent camouflage. It replaces the rainforest scops owl in drier western and southern biomes across the island.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Torotoroka scops owl is a small, ear-tufted owl endemic to the dry forests and scrub of western and southern Madagascar. It was long treated as part of the Madagascar scops owl complex and is often contrasted with the rainforest scops owl of the island’s humid east. Well camouflaged, it roosts by day against trunks and in dense foliage. It readily responds to playback of its soft, rhythmic hoots at night.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with silent glides
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, especially in the breeding season. Nests in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, laying a small clutch guarded by both parents. Roosts quietly by day and becomes active at dusk, often using regular perches for hunting.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, rhythmic hoots and short, repeated notes that carry well in still night air. Pairs may duet, with the female’s call slightly higher-pitched. Calls are often delivered from a concealed perch within the canopy.
