indian scops owl for 23 October 2025

Indian Scops-Owl Latest News

In a rare and remarkable discovery, birdwatchers recently recorded the first-ever sighting of the Indian scops owl near the Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary in Karnataka.

About Indian Scops-Owl

• It is a small woodland owl species, native to the southern regions of Asia. 
• Scientific Name: Otus bakkamoena
• Distribution: It is found in India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Iran. 
• Habitat:  
• It is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, scrublands, and agricultural areas. 
• It is a non-migratory species and tends to stay in the same area throughout the year. 

Indian Scops-Owl Features

• It measures between 17-20 centimeters in height and has a wingspan of around 45 centimeters. 
• Its body is stocky, with a round head and short tail.
• It has striking physical features, including its large, bright yellow eyes with black pupils. 
• The feathers are soft and fluffy, providing insulation against the cool night air. 
• The overall coloration of the owl’s feathers is a mixture of browns and greys, with intricate patterns of dark and light stripes and spots.
• A nocturnal hunter, the Indian Scops-Owl feeds predominantly on insect prey.

Indian Scops-Owl Conservation Status

It is classified as 'Least Concern' under the IUCN Red List.

Source: NIE