The oriental bay owl, or Phodilus badius, is a small-sized owl that belongs to the family Tytonidae. This bird is a deep chestnut brown with black spots on its underparts. It has a whitish heart-shaped facial disc with a distinct v-shaped ‘nose’. It has a short reddish brown tail, deep brown wings, dark eyes and a cream-coloured beak. It has a pinkish-cream front speckled with black dots and small tufted ears that protrude from the side of its head.
Commonly known as the Asian bay owl, this raptor is a unique species found in Southeast Asia. It is also found in India, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka and the Malay Peninsula. It is usually found living in the holes of trees in deciduous forests, evergreen forests, plantations, foothills and mangroves. It may also be found in the woods between rice and fruit plantations.
Like most owls, the oriental bay owl is a solitary hunter who prefers to do most of its hunting by night. It communicates with other owls by means of repeated loud hoots and whistles. It builds its nests in cavities in trees of rock ledges. The female lays about 3 to 5 eggs and incubates them over a period of 36 to 42 days. The male brings her food during this time and both parents diligently look after the owlets once they are born.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, these birds come under the category of ‘Least Concern’ as this species has a steady population and a wide range.
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