Cyprus Stamps SG 2022 (a) Birds Barn and Scops Owl - Official FDC

Cyprus Stamps SG 2022

Birds Barn and Scops Owl  

Tyto Alba, Otus Cyprus

Official FDC

Date of issue: 18 February 2022

Cyprus Scops and Barn Owl

The Cyprus Scops Owl is a tiny owl, endemic to Cyprus. During the day, it can occasionally be seen sitting very still on the branches of trees, although it is more likely to be heard at night than seen in daylight. Its territorial two-note call, a characteristic sound of early spring in Cyprus, is what usually signifies its presence. This whistling call differs from that of the Eurasian Scops Owl, which is a one-note whistle. It nests in the hollows of trees such as conifers and olive trees and has been found to nest regularly in nest boxes placed for larger owl species, such as the Barn Owl.