African Marsh Owl
Asio capensis
African Marsh Owl hunts small mammals in African wetlands and reed beds.
| Scientific name | Asio capensis |
|---|---|
| Swahili name | Bundi wa Mito |
| Conservation status | Least Concern |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Strigiformes |
| Family | Strigidae |
| Size | Male: approximately 290-350 grams; Female: approximately 320-400 grams |
How to identify
Medium-sized, length about 29-36 cm; round facial disc, dark eyes; short ear tufts usually not visible; brown upperparts with dark streaks; pale underparts with vertical streaks; broad wings, silent in flight.
Habitat
Marshes, wetlands, reed beds, and moist grasslands
Diet
Carnivorous, primarily preys on small mammals, amphibians, and insects
When it is active
Nocturnal, more active at dusk and dawn
Where it lives
Mainly distributed in eastern and southern Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, and the Masai Mara region
How to spot it
Observe quietly at wetland edges at dusk or dawn, use red light torches to minimize disturbance
Photography tips
Use telephoto lenses and cameras with good low-light performance, avoid flash, capture nocturnal hunting or flight postures
Threats
Habitat destruction and wetland drying; pesticide pollution
Similar species
Similar to the Long-eared Owl (Asio otus), distinguished by slightly smaller size, more erect ear tufts, and wetter habitat
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