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The Philippine scops owl, also Luzon lowland scops owl is a common owl, endemic to the Philippines, belonging to the family of the typical owls Strigidae. Other common names include "Otus Whitehead", "Whitehead scops owl" and "Luzon lowland scops owl". Everett's scops owl and Negros scops owls were formerly considered conspecific but are now classified as separate species.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
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The Philippine scops owl is a fairly small-to-mid-sized species of owl, but is arguably the largest true species of scops owl. Adults measure from 23 to 28 cm (9.1 to 11.0 in). Their body mass can range from 125 to 310 g (4.4 to 10.9 oz), with females often considerably larger than males. A distinguishing feature of this owl is its large ears that stand upright on its head. They also have big eyes that are dark in the center with a red/orange edge. In general, these owls are covered in dark brown feathers with dark streaks. Their ear-tufts also have a similar pattern. Voice: Philippine scops owls are a nocturnal species and vocalize more actively at night. Their song corresponds to "oik oik oik ook" with long and powerful notes that are clearly distinguished from one another. The last "ook" is lower than the previous three notes. Their call sounds completely different with a series of three to six escalating notes that are loud and abrupt.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the Philippine Scops Owl lives
When to see the Philippine Scops Owl
Peak activity in February · a variable species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Sulawesi Scops OwlOtus manadensisThe Sulawesi scops owl is an owl found on the Sulawesi island of Indonesia.
Andaman Scops OwlOtus balliThe Andaman scops owl is between 18 and 19 cm in height.
Reddish Scops OwlOtus rufescensThe reddish scops owl measures 15-18 cm in length and has a body mass of 70-83 g.
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