About the Rufous Owl
The rufous owl, also known as the rufous boobook, is a species of owl in the family Strigidae. It was described in 1846 by John Gould, an English ornithologist. Its common name reflects the rufous-coloured feathers that these owls are covered with in adulthood. While it is uncommon, the species has a wide range, including Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
The rufous owl is a large bird, often growing to 46–57 cm (18–22 in) in length, with a wingspan of 100 to 120 cm (39 to 47 in). Females typically weigh 700–1,050 g (25–37 oz), while the males typically weigh 1,050–1,300 g (37–46 oz). Both sexes have relatively small heads compared to their body and tail, but the head of the male is flatter and broader than that of the female. Juveniles are much smaller, usually 49–54 mm (1.9–2.1 in) long at birth, and are covered in downy white pelage.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where it lives
When to see it
Peak activity in July · a variable species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Luzon BoobookNinox philippensisThe Luzon boobook is one of the smallest of the owls in the Philippine hawk-owl complex.
Papuan BoobookNinox theomachaThe Papuan boobook, jungle boobook or jungle hawk owl, is a medium-sized, dark-colored owl.
Learn the Rufous Owl for real
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