Boobook Owl Facts
Boobook Owl
Like other Ninox owls, this bird has a reduced facial disc which may suggest that its hearing is less keenly developed than that of other owls. It does in fact search for food by day when it probably relies mainly on its excellent vision.
This owl spends most of the day hidden in singly or in pairs or family groups in a tree or a rocky crevice. If disturbed they slip silently away but small birds sometimes reveal their position, noisily mobbing them as they depart. Honeyeaters often discover and mob roost Boobook Owls during the day.
Three eggs are laid, usually in tree holes which are cleared out by the male. The female then lays and only she will incubate the eggs. The young leave the nest at about 5 weeks and will be fed and cared for by both parents for a further 2 to 3 months.
Latin Name: Ninox boobook
Length: 270-360mm
Wingspan: 710-830mm
Weight: 146-290g
Conservation Status: This is the smallest and most abundant of all Australian Owls. Common throughout their range but may be under threat from the use of pesticides.
Common in all types of country from forest to semi-desert and also
in town suburbs with abundant trees. Sometimes roosts in caves
in regions where trees are not abundant.
Get Involved
You can visit our Boobook Owls at The Owls Trust. Why not view our Adopt an Owl Page where you will find how to help The Owls Trust and our Owls if you wish to be involved with their care.
