How to identify the Noctowl

To correctly identify the Noctowl (Noctowl), 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

35-40 cm (13.8-15.7 in)

Wingspan

90-105 cm (35.4-41.3 in)

Weight

300-550 g (10.6-19.4 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Overall cryptic brown and grey plumage, heavily streaked and barred with darker brown and black, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The underparts are paler, often buffy-white with prominent dark streaking. The back and wings are mottled brown with lighter spots and bars. The facial disc is well-defined, typically pale grey or buff, bordered by darker feathers, and features concentric rings around the eyes.

2. 2

   Beak shape

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

   Short, strongly hooked, and sharp beak, dark grey to black in color, adapted for tearing flesh.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Bright, piercing yellow eyes, set forward in the facial disc, providing excellent binocular vision.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Feathered legs and feet (tarsi and toes) are typically covered in pale, downy feathers, often buff or whitish, blending with the underparts. Talons are dark grey to black.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Prominent, erectile ear tufts (often mistaken for ears) that are used for camouflage and communication. A distinct, heart-shaped facial disc. Silent flight due to specialized feather structure. Its large, bright yellow eyes are a key identifier.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles have a softer, fluffier plumage, often with less distinct streaking and barring. Their facial disc may be less defined, and their ear tufts might be shorter or less prominent. Eye color is typically similar to adults.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal changes in plumage. The cryptic coloration remains consistent year-round.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Minimal sexual dimorphism; females are typically slightly larger and heavier than males, but plumage is identical.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Medium-sized, stocky owl with a round head and prominent ear tufts. Appears robust but not as bulky as a Great Horned Owl.
• Plumage. Cryptic brown and grey mottling and streaking, excellent camouflage. Look for the distinct facial disc and bright yellow eyes.
• Ear Tufts. Prominent, erectile ear tufts that are often held up, giving the head a 'horned' appearance. These are feather tufts, not actual ears.
• Eyes. Large, bright yellow eyes are a key field mark, contrasting with the facial disc.
• Vocalization. Listen for its characteristic deep, resonant 'hoo-hoo-hooo, hoo-hoo' hooting call, especially at night.
• Habitat. Found in mature forests and woodlands. If you hear an owl hooting in such an environment, it's a strong indicator.

Explore the Noctowl