Hello! Today, I’d like to talk about Japan’s smallest owl, the Oriental Scops Owl. This adorable bird has some very interesting characteristics.
The Oriental Scops Owl is about 20 cm in length, making it the smallest owl in Japan! It has a camouflage coloration of mixed brown and gray. Its eyes are large and bright yellow, perfect for its nocturnal lifestyle. One of its distinctive features is the feather tufts on its head, which look like ears. These tufts can stand up or lay flat depending on the owl’s emotions or situation. The combination of its small size and these charming ear-like tufts make it instantly recognizable as an Oriental Scops Owl.
During the summer, the Oriental Scops Owl migrates from northern Kyushu to Hokkaido. It lives in forests in mountainous areas. Being nocturnal, it rests quietly in the trees during the day. Its diet mainly consists of insects, and at night, it hunts beetles, moths, and spiders.
The Japanese name for the Oriental Scops Owl means “a small owl like a leaf.” Its small size and unique call make it truly captivating. If you hear its call in the mountains, it might just be the Oriental Scops Owl greeting you. This summer, take a moment to listen for its call in the forest. Until next time!
