Saw the tiny Oriental Scops Owl for the first time several years ago while kayaking in the mangroves and my guests, who are keen birders, spotted them first! I was busy looking around for vipers then and had totally missed it!
Anyway, since then, each year, I look forward to finding these owls in the mangroves during the migratory season when they would be here. Not always lucky in spotting them though.
Finally chanced upon a pair of these owls in the mangroves today.....
I had my guests wait their turn to get a look at these owls one kayak at a time and quietly taking photos. Hope we did not disturb them too much.
The Oriental Scops Owl, Otus Sunia, measures just 19cm from tip to tip. It tends to remain silent so as not to be spotted. As you can see, with its colour and markings, it is actually quite well-camouflaged against the mangrove trees in the backdrop. If you weren't looking, you would not have been aware of their presence at all while you kayak pass.
Also spotted today was a Brown-winged Kingfisher, calling out loudly as it flew pass in our direction and made its way to perch on a mangrove tree nearby, then it continued its loud calls for all to hear after that so we could get a good look at it. Later, there was a Collared Kingfisher who sort of posed for us for a bit.
A great day indeed for birding enthusiasts!
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