Pearl-spotted Owlet and African Barred Owlet

Pearl-spotted owlet (first 3 photos) African Barred Owlet (last 6 photos)

The pearl-spotted owlet has two feathered eyes on the back of his head, probably to scare his predators into thinking he’s looking at them when looking the other way.

The Pearl-spotted is slightly smaller than the African Barred.. the first being 17 –21 cm (6.7 – 8.2 inches) long and weighing 60 – 100 grams (2.1 – 3.5 Oz) the second is 20 – 22 cm (7.8 – 8.6 inches) long and weighs in at  100 – 135 grams (3.5 – 4.8 Oz).

The Pearl-spotted hunts a variety of small prey. The call is a whistled tu-tu-tu-tu-tu-tu-tu.

The African barred is partly diurnal, and feeds mostly on insects, although small rodents and birds may also be eaten. The call ..?? No idea…

African Barred Owlet.. Little Guy.

African Barred Owlet (Glaucidium capense).

The species is frequently found in woodlands and forests. It may also occur in more open savannah and along rivers. It is partly active during the day making it a little easier to see. It feeds on insects, and small rodents and birds may also be eaten.

Now I’ve just discovered more than that I don’t know… I cant tell you even what size they get to… they kept flying away when I alighted with my measuring tape… so all I can tell you is they are small…. maybe that’s why the name Owlet…. Their call is nothing special and can be heard by clicking here…

So here are some photos…. (and these didn’t even talk to me… just gave me the beady eye..)…