Sooty Owl Tyto tenebricosa Scientific name definitions

The Austro-Papuan region is home to numerous species in the genus Tyto, though few are as striking as the Sooty Owl. Its silvery and sooty black plumage, numerous silver spots, and a "bomb whistle" call all distinguish it from its relatives. Selectivity in nesting and hunting sites contribute to a narrow distribution, though it is common within ideal habitats. Within its range, Sooty Owl exhibits a "leapfrog" distribution, in which two subspecies in the "Greater" Sooty Owl group are separated by a population of "Lesser" Sooty Owls (see Systematics). Historically, these two subgroups have been separated as different species due to their differences in phenotype and vocalizations, though they are now considered to be subgroups of the same species.

Several aspects of the Sooty Owl's life history have been studied, though most require further investigation. Similar to other owls, it is monogamous and forms lifelong pairs. In a pair, the female has been found to be more aggressive in defending territories, potentially due to her larger size. The pair may not nest each year, though a clutch of 1–2 eggs is raised when they do.

Habitat loss is the greatest threat to the future of the species. Even though it is known to consume terrestrial mammals, insects, and small birds, arboreal mammals make up the majority of the Sooty Owl's diet. Logging has thus reduced areas where these mammals can be found, resulting in a reduction in its prey base. In addition, Sooty Owl relies on large, native trees with hollows for nesting and roosting, with logging leading to a loss of these areas.