African Spotted Eagle Owl (Bubo africanus)

Conservation Status: Least Concern
Distribution: Sub-Saharan Africa and the Arabian Peninsula
Habitat: Rocky desert outcrops, woodland and savannah
Diet: Small mammals, birds, bats, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates
Size: 45cm / 18 inches (head to tail)
Weight: 480 - 850g / 1.0-2.0lbs
Activity Cycle: Nocturnal
Threats: Traffic accidents and becoming trapped in barb-wired fences

The eagle owl family contains some of the largest owls in the world, however the African spotted eagle owl is one of the smallest of the family at only 45cm in length, and up to 850g. They have a distinctive appearance with prominent ‘ear tufts’ on the tops of their heads which all members of the eagle owl family have. African spotted eagle owls are quite a vocal owl species, the calls are generally typical, musical eagle-owl hoots. Generally the male call with two hoots: "Hooo hooopoooo" and the female answers with three, with less stress on the middle note: "Hooo hoo hooo". The young do not hoot till effectively adult, but from a very young age they will hiss threateningly and snap their beaks castanet-like if alarmed. These sounds they make throughout life, generally in a threatening attitude with head down and wings spread sideways to present their upper surfaces forward, umbrella-like. They might present such behaviour either as a challenge to rival owls or when defending nest or young against enemies.

Did you Know?

They are thought to be one of the most populous (common) owls in Africa and are even found in and around urban areas, sometimes giving them the name 'the urban owl'. In fact, they will use street lighting to their advantage, sitting around street lights and catching insects that are attracted to the light, such as moths!

Our African Spotted Eagle Owl is called Jackson!

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