Socotra Scops-Owl Otus socotranus

A small, compact, pale gray owl with tiny ear tufts. Found on the island of Socotra, where it inhabits arid habitats with trees, including palms. Most often detected by voice: two or three quiet introductory “phut” notes followed by a resonant “prreuup”, often repeating, sometimes for long periods. This is the only small owl known from Socotra, though the migratory Eurasian Scops-Owl might occur. Best distinguished by voice, though Socotra Scops-Owl is smaller and paler, with smaller ear tufts.