A small, stocky owl that lives in the forests and woodlands of South Asia, especially in countries like India and Sri Lanka. This owl is known for its round, compact body, and small size, which makes it very different from the larger owls we often think of. Despite its small size, the jungle owlet is a skilled hunter and plays an important role in the ecosystem.

One of the most noticeable things about the jungle owlet is its appearance. It has dark brown or gray feathers, with white bars or streaks that help it blend in with the trees and branches. This makes it very well camouflaged, so it can hide from both predators and prey. Its head is rounded, and its big yellow eyes stand out against its dark feathers. These eyes help the owl see clearly, especially in the low light of dawn or dusk when it is most active.

Unlike many other owls, the jungle owlet is often seen during the day, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. This makes it diurnal, which is not as common for owls. During the day, it hunts for small animals like insects, lizards, and rodents. It is a quick and agile flyer, able to dart through the trees to catch its prey. The jungle owlet usually hunts from a perch, watching for movement below, and then swooping down to grab its target with its sharp talons.

A fun fact about the jungle owlet is its unique call. It has a high-pitched, repetitive whistle that sounds like “klee-klee-klee.” These calls are often heard early in the morning and late in the evening, and they are used to communicate with other owlets, especially during the breeding season. The jungle owl’s call can echo through the forest, helping to mark its territory and attract a mate.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Bangladesh

2016

Breeding

Bhutan

2016

Breeding

India

2016

Breeding

Myanmar

2016

Breeding

Nepal

2016

Breeding

Sri Lanka

2016

Breeding