Chestnut-backed Owlet

The Chestnut-backed Owlet, Glaucidium castanotum, is a diminutive and robust owl, stretching a mere 19 cm (7.5 inches) from beak to tail. Its plumage is a rich tapestry of chestnut brown across the upperparts, scapulars, and wing coverts, intricately laced with darker bars. The underparts present a stark contrast, being predominantly white, adorned with bold blackish streaks that follow the shafts of each feather. A brown facial disc frames its striking yellow eyes, and a distinctive white neckband graces its throat. Both male and female owlets are cloaked in similar plumage, exhibiting no sexual dimorphism.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Chestnut-backed Owlet, look for its small, stocky frame and the characteristic chestnut brown coloration with darker barring on its upperparts. The white underparts with blackish streaks, combined with the yellow eyes and white neckband, are key features to distinguish it from other species.

Habitat

This species is a denizen of the wet zone forests of Sri Lanka, favoring the lush canopies where it can be spotted with relative ease in locales such as Kitulgala and Sinharaja.

Distribution

The Chestnut-backed Owlet is endemic to Sri Lanka, historically widespread across the southern half of the island, including the hills and wet-zone lowlands. However, its range has contracted significantly, and it is now primarily found in the remaining wet zone forests and adjacent hills, at elevations reaching up to 2,000 meters (6,500 feet).

Behaviour

The Chestnut-backed Owlet is a diurnal raptor, often observed during daylight hours, particularly as dusk approaches. Its flight pattern is notably undulating. This owl is frequently betrayed by the cacophony of smaller birds that mob it while it rests in the treetops. It is known to favor the upper reaches of tall trees on steep hillsides, which can sometimes render it elusive to the casual observer.

Song & Calls

The call of the Chestnut-backed Owlet is a distinctive, slow "kraw-kraw" that resonates across the forest, a sound that can be heard over considerable distances.

Breeding

Breeding behavior includes nesting within tree cavities, where the female lays a clutch of two eggs.

Diet and Feeding

The Chestnut-backed Owlet's diet is primarily insectivorous, with beetles being a favored prey item. However, it is also known to hunt mice, small lizards, and even small birds, particularly during the feeding of its young.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Chestnut-backed Owlet as Near Threatened, indicating that it faces threats that could lead to its vulnerability in the near future.