Least Concern

Length about 45–55 cm; wingspan ~95–110 cm; weight around 400–700 g. Medium to large owl with dark brown upperparts, buff underparts with streaks, and prominent facial disc.

Resident across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and parts of Southeast Asia.

Non-migratory; largely sedentary with only minor local movements depending on prey availability.

Typically January to June, varying slightly by region. Breeding peaks during dry or pre-monsoon months.

Nests in tree cavities, old nests of other large birds, or dense foliage. Lays 2–4 eggs, incubated mainly by the female. Both parents feed the chicks.

Prefers dense forests, wooded hills, and forest edges. Often roosts during the day in thick foliage or tree hollows.

Carnivorous: feeds on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large insects. Hunts mainly at night using stealth and acute hearing.