description Arabian Scops Owl Overview
The Arabian scops owl is a small nocturnal owl native to the Arabian Peninsula. It inhabits wooded and well vegetated areas in parts of Oman, Yemen, and southwestern Saudi Arabia, where it feeds largely on insects and other small prey. Formerly treated as part of the African scops owl complex, it is recognized as a distinct species on the basis of differences that include its vocalizations, appearance, and geographic distribution.
help Arabian Scops Owl FAQ
What is the scientific name of the Arabian scops owl?
The Arabian scops owl is Otus pamelae. It was formerly treated as a subspecies called Otus senegalensis pamelae.
Which countries does the Arabian scops owl inhabit?
Its range includes southwestern Saudi Arabia, southwestern Yemen, and Oman. It is considered an Arabian endemic rather than a widespread African scops owl.
What habitat and food does the Arabian scops owl prefer?
It uses wooded and well-vegetated areas in otherwise arid parts of the Arabian Peninsula. Its diet consists largely of insects and other small prey.
Why is the Arabian scops owl treated as a separate species?
Modern taxonomic treatments recognize Otus pamelae as distinct from the African scops owl Otus senegalensis. Earlier classifications grouped it with the African species as a subspecies.
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