How to identify the Noctowl

To correctly identify the Noctowl (Noctowl (Pokemon)), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

50-60 cm (19.7-23.6 in)

Wingspan

110-130 cm (43.3-51.2 in)

Weight

700-1200 g (1.5-2.6 lbs)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults exhibit a mottled brown and grey plumage on the dorsal side, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The ventral side is paler, often buff or whitish, with prominent dark streaking. The facial disc is well-defined, typically a pale buff or whitish color, bordered by darker feathers, and features concentric rings around the eyes. Prominent, erectile ear tufts are a key characteristic, though they are not actual ears.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Short, sharply hooked, and dark grey to black.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Large, forward-facing, and bright yellow to orange-yellow, providing excellent nocturnal vision.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Feathered to the toes, which are dark grey with black talons.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Large, bright yellow eyes, prominent ear tufts, and a distinct facial disc with dark concentric rings. The overall cryptic brown and grey mottling is also characteristic.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles have a downy, fluffier appearance, often paler and more uniformly buff or grey than adults, with less defined facial markings and shorter ear tufts. Their eyes are typically duller yellow.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage remains consistent year-round, optimized for camouflage.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Minimal. Females are typically slightly larger and heavier than males, but plumage differences are negligible.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Medium-sized, robust owl with a relatively large head and broad wings. Appears stocky when perched.
• Ear Tufts. Look for prominent, erectile ear tufts on top of the head. These are a key distinguishing feature, though they can be flattened when the bird is relaxed.
• Eyes. Bright yellow to orange-yellow, large, and forward-facing. Surrounded by dark concentric rings within the pale facial disc.
• Plumage Pattern. Mottled brown and grey upperparts for camouflage, with a paler, streaked underside. The facial disc is pale with a dark border.
• Vocalization. Listen for its characteristic deep, resonant 'hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' hooting call, especially at night.
• Habitat. Typically found in mature forests, woodlands, and forest edges, often near clearings.

Explore the Noctowl