Mountain Scops Owl

The Mountain Scops Owl (Otus spilocephalus) is a nocturnal bird of prey, a subspecies endemic to Taiwan, also known as the Taiwan Scops Owl. It measures about 18-20 cm in length and mainly inhabits mountainous forests from low to mid-altitudes. Its most striking features are its yellow eyes and yellow beak. Its body is generally yellowish-brown to reddish-brown, with fine dark markings. It also has a pair of short ear tufts on its head. The Mountain Scops Owl is primarily active at night, usually perching in densely leaved trees during the day. Its plumage closely resembles tree bark and dead leaves, and because it often hides deep within the canopy, it's difficult to spot even when nearby. As night falls, it begins hunting for prey, which includes insects, lizards, frogs, small birds, and rodents. It also uses its calls to mark its territory. The Mountain Scops Owl is a precious and rare protected wild animal in Taiwan. It's not an exceptionally rare bird, but due to its nocturnal habits, small size, and tendency to hide in dense foliage, it's hard to see directly even when living in the mountains. Image source: https://share.google/mSb9028AtkPy9Hobq Happy Mid-Autumn Festival, even though I'm a bit late~