description Flores Hawk-Owl Overview
The Flores hawk-owl, also called the Flores scops owl, is a small owl scientifically classified as Ninox alfredi. It is endemic to the Indonesian island of Flores, where it inhabits forested areas and is recognized by its reddish-brown plumage, barred underparts, and pale facial markings. The nocturnal species was known for many years from a small number of historical specimens before living birds were documented again in the 1990s, and habitat loss remains a conservation concern.
help Flores Hawk-Owl FAQ
Is the Flores Hawk-Owl really Ninox alfredi?
The bird normally meant by this entry is the Flores scops-owl, whose accepted scientific name is Otus alfredi. Published bird references do not list Ninox alfredi for this species, so the catalog wording appears to mix the common name or genus. [Cornell eBird profile](https://ebird.org/species/flsowl1/)
Where does the Flores owl live?
Otus alfredi is endemic to the Indonesian island of Flores, meaning it is naturally restricted to that island. It is associated with montane and other forest habitats on Flores. [Cornell eBird profile](https://ebird.org/species/flsowl1/)
How can birders distinguish the Flores owl from other scops-owls?
It is a small, rufous owl with yellow eyes, a pale bill, a pale forehead, and prominent white spots on the wings. Cornell's identification notes distinguish it from Wallace's and Moluccan scops-owls by its rufous appearance, pale bill, and lack of a strong dark facial border. [Cornell eBird profile](https://ebird.org/species/flsowl1/)
What does the Flores owl sound like and when is it active?
It is a nocturnal forest owl, and Cornell describes its call as a distinctive stuttering series similar to da-da-da repeated several times. Field records have included sightings near Danau Ranamese and other forest sites on Flores. [Cornell eBird profile](https://ebird.org/species/flsowl1/)
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