Scops Owl
Scientific Name: Otus scopsMaltese Name: Kokka
Family: Owls (Strigidae)
Occurence: Regular
Breeds in Malta: No
Overview:
The European Scops Owl is a small owl that breeds in southern Europe eastwards into western and central Asia. It is migratory, wintering in southernmost Europe and sub-Saharan Africa. It is unlikely that this nocturnal owl would be found outside the breeding season when it is not calling. It breeds in open woodland, parks and gardens. It lays its eggs in a tree hole. It takes small prey such as insects and other invertebrates. The Scops Owl perches upright when roosting and shows small ear tufts. It is predominantly grey-brown in colour, with paler face, underparts and shoulder line. This species has a strong direct flight on long narrow wings, reflecting its migratory habits. The call is a deep whistle, given by both sexes.
Status:
Regular Migrant in spring and autumn.
When to See:
In spring from late March till Early May and in Autumn from early September till mid-October. Very few winter here.
Where to See:
Seen in areas with open woodland. Best places are Comino and Buskett.
Photographs:
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Roosting Scops Owl, Comino |
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| Scops Owl, Comino | Scops Owl, Comino |
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Scops Owl, Comino |
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