West Solomons owl
Strigiformes·Not Evaluated (based on text's description of 'widespread and common' and 'stable trend')
The West Solomons owl (Athene jacquinoti) is a small to medium-sized owl native to the western Solomon Islands archipelago. It is distinguished by its rusty brown upperparts, buffy white chest, and creamy unmarked belly, with a grayish-brown facial disc. This nocturnal hunter primarily feeds on insects and small vertebrates within its lowland and foothill forest habitat.
Key Facts
- ›Native to the western Solomon Islands archipelago.
- ›Measures between 23–31 cm in length.
- ›Plumage includes rusty brown upperparts and a creamy unmarked belly.
- ›Has a grayish-brown facial disc with white eyebrows and throat band.
- ›Hunts insects and small vertebrates at night.
- ›Roosts in tree cavities or forks during the day.
West Solomons Boobook
Tropical Moist Forests, Subtropical Moist Forests, Lowlands, Foothills
Solomon Islands
Insects, Small Vertebrates
About West Solomons owl
The West Solomons owl, scientifically known as Athene jacquinoti, is a species of owl endemic to the western Solomon Islands archipelago. This small to medium-sized owl measures between 23 and 31 centimeters in length and is characterized by its distinctive plumage. Its upperparts are a rusty brown, which may be spotted or barred with white, contrasting with a buffy white chest, sometimes similarly marked. The belly is a creamy white and remains unmarked.
Physical Characteristics
A notable feature of the West Solomons owl is its grayish-brown facial disc, which is elegantly edged by narrow white eyebrows. A band of white also crosses its throat, further defining its facial features. This owl's coloration and markings provide camouflage within its natural environment.
Habitat and Range
The West Solomons owl is found in tropical or subtropical moist forests, inhabiting the lowlands and foothills of the western Solomon Islands archipelago. It can be found at altitudes up to 1,500 meters above sea level. The species' range is restricted to this specific island chain, highlighting its unique biogeographic significance.
Behavior and Diet
As a nocturnal species, the West Solomons owl is primarily active during the night. Its hunting efforts are focused on insects and small vertebrates, which form the core of its diet. During daylight hours, the owl typically roosts in a secure location, either within a tree cavity or in the main fork of a tree, seeking shelter and rest until dusk.
Taxonomy and Conservation
First described in 1850 by Charles Lucien Bonaparte, the species was initially placed in the genus Athene. While it was later reclassified into the genus Ninox, phylogenetic studies have since supported its placement back within the Athene genus. The species epithet 'jacquinoti' honors the French explorer Charles Hector Jacquinot, who dedicated significant time to exploring the Pacific region. The common name directly refers to its presence in the Solomon Islands. Although a precise global population count is not available, the West Solomons owl is considered widespread and common within its limited geographical area, with a stable population trend. It is noted that small numbers of adults and juveniles are sometimes taken from the wild for the pet trade.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name of the West Solomons owl?
The scientific name of the West Solomons owl is Athene jacquinoti. This name was assigned by Charles Lucien Bonaparte in 1850. The specific epithet honors French explorer Charles Hector Jacquinot.
Where is the West Solomons owl found?
The West Solomons owl is found in the western portion of the Solomon Islands archipelago. It inhabits tropical or subtropical moist forests in lowlands and foothills.
What does the West Solomons owl eat?
The West Solomons owl is a nocturnal hunter that primarily feeds on insects and small vertebrates. Its diet consists of the small animals available in its forest environment.
What are the physical characteristics of the West Solomons owl?
This owl measures 23–31 cm in length. Its upperparts are rusty brown, while its chest is buffy white, and its belly is creamy and unmarked. It features a grayish-brown facial disc bordered by white eyebrows and a white throat band.
What is the conservation status of the West Solomons owl?
While the global population has not been quantified, the West Solomons owl is reported to be widespread and common within its range. The population trend appears to be stable.
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