We no longer have any white-faced scops owls at Whipsnade Zoo - find out more about our animals.
White-faced scops owl facts
- The white-faced scops owl is able to transform to ward off predators, by either making itself appear much larger or smaller.
- Most prey is swallowed whole and the indigestible bits, such as bones, feathers and fur, are regurgitated as pellets.
- Their nests may be built in old nests of other birds, in a treehole or even on the ground.
What do white-faced scops owls look like?
Their faces are characterised by two “ear” tufts with black tips and large orange eyes. Their faces are white with a black boarder, while their general plumage is grey with dark streaks and white spots.
What do white-faced scops owls eat?
Insects, small mammals and birds.
White-faced scops owl threats
Habitat loss - human encroachment is making it harder and harder for Scops owls to find safe homes in which to nest and breed,