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The African scops owl is a small owl which is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
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The African scops owl is a small owl, measuring 17 cm (6.7 in) in length. It is typically greyish-brown, though sometimes pale rufous or warmer brown, and is cryptically marked with streaks and mottling. Its grey facial disk has a narrow black edge, and its eyes are yellow. It has ear tufts, which are generally kept lowered unless the bird is disturbed. The African scops owl is around 15–17 cm (5.9–6.7 in) in length with a wingspan of 45 cm (18 in). Voice: The African scops owl gives a monotonous quivering distinctive "prrrp" at five second intervals.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Djibouti, Liberia, Somalia, Sudan.
When to see it
Peak activity in November · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Oriental Scops OwlOtus suniaThe oriental scops owl is a small, variably plumaged, yellow-eyed owl with ear-tufts which are not always erect.
Madagascar Scops OwlOtus rutilusThe Madagascar scops owl is a relatively small owl with short, rounded wings and short erectile ear-tufts on top of the head.
Learn the African Scops Owl for real
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