Often seen in the backyard but usually in the cooler months. This was clicked in the morning a few days back with the sun behind the bird. These owlets are mainly active at dawn and dusk, but are known to call and fly during daytime as well. The call is distinctive and consists of an increasingly rapid series of prao..prao.prao-prao-prao that rises and fades in volume to end abruptly. When detected, they are often mobbed by Drongos, Treepies and Sunbirds. I have seen one being driven off by a White-throated Kingfisher as they are rivals lookng for similar prey. Their small size and dark brown barred with white plumage makes them appear like a dead tree stump thus offering them excellent camouflage. They perch on branches that offer a good view of the surroundings and are often seen closely scanning the ground for prey. Diet consists of insects, small birds, reptiles and rodents.
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