Buffy Fish Owl

The buffy fish owl, known scientifically as Ketupa ketupu and colloquially as the Malay fish owl, is a captivating species of fish owl belonging to the family Strigidae. This owl is characterized by its buff brown plumage, which is accentuated by darker tawny brown feathers on its back. The face of the buffy fish owl is a lighter shade, with light brown eyebrows enhancing its striking appearance. Adult individuals typically measure between 40 to 48 cm in length and weigh between 1,028 to 2,100 grams, making it the smallest of the fish owl species.

Identification Tips

Distinguished by its prominent ear tufts, the buffy fish owl's wing feathers and tail exhibit broad yellowish and dark brown bars. The wings themselves are rounded, and the underparts are a yellowish brown, rich buff, or fulvous with broad blackish shaft stripes. Notably, the legs of this owl are long and bare, unadorned by feathers.

Habitat

The buffy fish owl is native to the lush tropical forests and wetlands of Southeast Asia, where it thrives near rivers, lakes, and aquaculture sites. It can be found at elevations up to 1,600 meters and has adapted to living in plantations as well as rural and urban gardens.

Distribution

This species has a wide range across Southeast Asia, from Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore to Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and the Sunda Islands. It is also present, though non-breeding, on Cocos (Keeling) Island.

Behaviour

The buffy fish owl is known for its vocal prowess, emitting a variety of sounds including hissing and a rapid rattling "kutook." Before breeding, it becomes particularly vocal, with pairs engaging in extended duets. By day, it seeks refuge in densely foliaged trees, often alone.

Song & Calls

Its calls include a loud "pof-pof-pof" and a high, hawk-like "hie-e-e-e-e-keek" series of notes, which are especially prominent during the pre-breeding period.

Diet and Feeding

Adept at hunting, the buffy fish owl primarily feeds on fish, crabs, frogs, small reptiles, and birds. It also scavenges carrion. Unlike other owls, it hunts from the bank or wades into shallow waters, but does not submerge its body during the hunt.

Breeding

Breeding season typically sees eggs laid from February to April in western Java, with occasional nesting in other months. The buffy fish owl often nests atop large ferns or in tree hollows, laying a single egg per season. Incubation lasts around 28 to 29 days, with fledging occurring after six weeks.

Conservation status

The buffy fish owl is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population. However, it has faced threats from illegal trade and habitat loss.

Similar Species

While similar in some respects to the tawny fish owl, the buffy fish owl is distinguished by several physical, anatomical, habitat, and behavioral differences, ensuring its unique place among the avian fauna of Southeast Asia.