Mindanao Scops Owl
The Mindanao Scops Owl ( Otus mirus ) is a species of owl of the genus Scops Owl ( Otus ). It is endemic to the Philippine island of Mindanao.
Features
The Mindanao Scops Owl reached a size 19 to 20 centimeters. The wing length is 127-131 mm, tail length 58 mm and weight 65 grams. In adult birds the face veil is light gray-brown with indistinct rings. The eyebrows and the inner area of the small ear tufts are whitish. The top is gray-brown with bold black and bright reddish brown spots. At the back of the neck white spots forming a conspicuous white band. The scapulars show fairly large white areas on the outer webs. Wings and tail have a dark and light banding. The underside is tan - white to whitish- cream color with black spots and a herringbone pattern. The lower third of the barrel and the toes are featherless. The color of the iris is yellow or brown. The beak is dark greenish gray. The cere is greenish - yellow to gray. The toes are light gray to whitish- yellow. The claws are greyish brown. The young birds are previously undescribed.
Vocalizations
The vocalizations of the male consist of two syllables, melancholy whistles that remind a little of the tonality of pigeons. The second note is more powerful than the first. This double notes will be played in long rows at intervals of about 10 to 15 seconds and consist of a pli - pioooh, pli - pioooh.
Distribution and habitat
Reserves are around Mount Hilong - Hilong to the Mount Kita Glad and from Lake Sebu in Mindanao known in the Mount Apo Natural Park. The habitat is montane rain forests at altitudes between 1,000 and 1,500 m.
Way of life
The lifestyle of Mindanao Scops Owl is been explored very little. It is site loyal, nocturnal and feeds mainly on insects and other arthropods. About their reproductive behavior is not known, however, males were observed with enlarged genitalia in February and March.
Inventory and risk
Information about their population size are not available. Although the Mindanao Scops Owl is generally described as rare, they seem to be not seriously threatened, at high altitude, since the forests are not affected in the form of the clearing, like the forests at lower altitudes. BirdLife International classifies them in the early warning list ( near threatened ); However, more field work is needed before their protection status can be adequately valued.