Least Concern

18–21 cm — a small, compact owlet with a rounded head, no ear tufts, and dense fine barring across the body.

Resident species — does not migrate; stays within the same region year-round.

No migration; only local movements within home range.

Mostly February to June, though timing varies slightly by region.

Nests in tree cavities, old barbet or woodpecker holes, or natural hollows; lays 3–4 eggs; both parents are involved in care.

Occupies moist and dry deciduous forests, scrub forests, forest edges, bamboo groves, wooded farmlands, and even semi-urban areas with tall trees.

Feeds on insects, especially beetles, grasshoppers, cicadas; also eats small lizards, rodents, frogs, and occasionally small birds. Hunts mainly at dawn, dusk, and night.