Sangihe Scops-Owl
Otus collari
A small, cryptically patterned brown owl confined to the island of Sangihe. Largely brown with scattered black streaks and patches and some indistinct pale markings on the wings. Occurs in forest, plantations, and patches of trees from the lowlands into the foothills. Unmistakable: the only small owl on the island, and the only one there with ear tufts. Gives a strident, high-pitched single “peuw” song note.
Identification
The scopes owls have a brown complexion to it. However, its facial disk has a pinch of white above the eyes. They have sporadic black streaks and patches as each bird is unique and excellent for camouflage in its forest habitat. The upper parts are brown with dark shaft streaks. The bird's eyes are yellow with red pupils. It has tan feathers in its midsection. Along with that, the Sangihe scops owl's call sounds similar to a frail whistle. Their call is high pitched and can last from 7–8 seconds long.
Taxonomy
- Scientific name
- Otus collari
- Authority
- Lambert & Rasmussen, 1998
- Order
- Strigiformes
- Family
- Strigidae
- Genus
- Otus
Range and habitat
These birds are exclusive to the islands of Sangihe, mainly in North Sangihe in Southeast Asia next to Indonesia. They favor forests and mixed plantations. It is common and widespread on the island. They commonly reside in agricultural areas with trees up to 1150 feet and bushes.
- Migration
- Resident species
Conservation
- Population trend
- stable
Photos
Distribution
Other Birds
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Puna Ibis
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Rather stocky, all-dark ibis of wetlands and lakes in high Andes; also wanders to coastal lowlands, where can be locally numerous. Usually in small groups. Feeds by probing with its downcurved bill. Breeding adult has dark chestnut head and neck, and red face. Nonbreeding and immature have whitish streaking on head and neck, and duller face. In flight, feet project only a short distance beyond tail tip. Compare with more slender and long-legged White-faced Ibis, but no range overlap.
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Distinctive toucan of montane forests in the Andes from Venezuela to extreme northwest Peru. Easy to identify with black cap, dark bill, white throat, powder blue belly, and mostly brownish upperparts. Occurs from 1,500-2,500m, typically below the elevational range of Gray-breasted Mountain-Toucan but occasionally some overlap. Uncommon; usually found singly or in pairs in the forest canopy, often around fruiting trees.
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