Otus scops
The Eurasian Scops-owl is a small owl with prominent ear-tufts and large yellow eyes. Its plumage is mottled grey or brown, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Fine black streaks run vertically down its body.
Both sexes look similar, with subtle variations in overall colouration. Juveniles resemble adults but may have a slightly fluffier appearance and less defined markings.
There are two different morphs, the most common being predominantly grey-brown in colour with a paler face and underparts.
Length
19cm to 21cm
Wingspan
47cm to 54cm
Weight
60g to 135g
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Grey Brown
Secondary Colour
White Black
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Grey
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
This species inhabits open woodlands, orchards, and parklands across southern and eastern Europe, parts of North Africa, and into central Asia. It prefers areas with a mix of open ground for hunting and trees for nesting and roosting.
During summer, it breeds across much of its range, but most populations migrate to sub-Saharan Africa for winter. Small numbers occasionally reach the UK, particularly in the south and east.
Up to 2,000 meters
Temperate, Mediterranean
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Eurasian Scops-owl. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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