Southern White-faced Owl

The Southern white-faced owl, Ptilopsis granti, is a relatively diminutive member of the Strigidae family, gracing the southern reaches of the African continent with its presence. This owl is distinguishable by its length of 22–28 cm (8.7–11.0 in) and a weight range of 185–220 g (6.5–7.8 oz). It boasts a plumage of grey with dark streaks adorning its upperparts and white spots on the scapulars, while its underparts are a paler whitish with similar dark streaking. The face is a striking white framed by a bold black border, accentuating the large orange eyes. A pair of short ear-tufts, tipped with black, crown the head. The juvenile birds present with a more greyish face, in contrast to the adults' stark white.

Identification Tips

To identify the Southern white-faced owl, look for the characteristic white face with a contrasting black border and the prominent orange eyes. The ear-tufts are relatively short and have black tips. In comparison to its northern cousin, the Southern white-faced owl is generally darker with more pronounced streaking on the underparts.

Habitat

This species is found in savanna and dry woodland environments, where it can apply its hunting prowess.

Distribution

The Southern white-faced owl's range is quite extensive, stretching from Gabon in the west across to southern Kenya and down to Namibia and northern South Africa.

Behaviour

Typically observed alone or in pairs, this owl is a nocturnal hunter, preying on large insects and occasionally supplementing its diet with small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Song & Calls

The owl's vocalizations are a series of fast, bubbling hoots, often heard at night and repeated frequently. These rapid notes culminate in a longer, higher-pitched 'hoot', especially during the breeding season, with pairs sometimes singing in duet. This is in stark contrast to the northern white-faced owl's two-note call.

Breeding

Breeding involves utilizing the old nests of other birds. The clutch usually consists of two or three eggs, which are incubated for about 30 days. The fledglings venture out of the nest approximately a month post-hatching.

Similar Species

The Northern white-faced owl (P. leucopsis) is the closest relative, usually paler and browner with less streaking below, and can be differentiated by its distinct two-note call.

Diet and Feeding

The Southern white-faced owl mainly hunts large insects, with its diet occasionally including small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Southern white-faced owl as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant immediate threats to its survival.

Temperature adaptability

In the cooler winter months, the Southern white-faced owl increases its resting metabolic rate by approximately 45% to adapt to the colder climate, a rather unusual trait for the species. Its basal metabolic rate is lower than expected for birds of its size, which is advantageous during periods of food scarcity.