- Fearful Owl
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Fearful Owl Conservation status Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Aves Order: Strigiformes Family: Strigidae Genus: Nesasio
Peters, 1937Species: N. solomonensis Binomial name Nesasio solomonensis
(Hartert, 1901)The Fearful Owl (Nesasio solomonensis) is a medium-sized owl endemic to the Solomon Islands and Bougainville in Papua New Guinea. It is generally seen no more than 800 meters above sea level, where it is found in tall lowland or hill forests. It nests in tree holes and cracks.
It has a rufous facial disk and distinct white eyebrows. The inner edge of the facial disk is also white. It is usually mottled brown with deep ochre underparts and blackish streaks. This species may be confused with the Solomon Hawk Owl, although the latter is slightly smaller and more slender. It is also similar in appearance to the Laughing Owl, which is now extinct.[1]
The Fearful Owl preys on phalangers, especially the Northern Common Cuscus. Overhunting of the Northern Common Cuscus may be threatening the Fearful Owl[2], although habitat loss due to logging is the primary cause of population decline.
References
External links
Categories:- IUCN Red List vulnerable species
- Strigidae
- Owls
- Genera of birds
- Birds of the Solomon Islands
- Birds of Papua New Guinea
- Monotypic bird genera
- Animals described in 1901
- Strigiformes stubs
- Solomon Islands stubs
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