Overview of Owls

• Owls belong to the Family Strigiformes.
• Approximately 244 species of owls worldwide.
• Generally active at night (nocturnal).

Cultural Significance

• In Western cultures, owls symbolize wisdom.
• In Indonesia, they are seen as harbingers of death, leading to the popular local name for owls.

Role in Ecosystem

• Prey on insects, frogs, mice, etc.
• Effective natural pest control for farmers, more effective than rat poison.

Types of Owls Native to Indonesia

1. Javan Hoarse (Barn Owl)

   • Medium-sized, long round wings, short tail.
   • Long, sturdy legs, round head without ear tufts.
   • Pale coloration and deep dark eyes.

2. Serak Bukit (Oriental Bay Owl)

   • Also known as Wowo-Wiwi.
   • Face shape resembles a cobra.
   • Upper body reddish-brown with black and white spots.

3. Red Celepuk

   • Found in Java, Kalimantan, and Sumatra.
   • Lives in lowland forests.
   • Reddish color with reddish-brown top and black/white striped feathers.
   • Considered rare due to habitat loss.

4. Beluk Jampuk (Barred Eagle Owl)

   • Large owl, can reach 45 cm in length.
   • Gray fur with prominent horizontal ear patterns.

5. Eurasian Eagle Owl

   • One of the largest owl species.
   • Found in Asia, Europe, and northern Africa.
   • Striking orange eyes and feathery ear tufts.

6. Javan Watu Owl

   • Endemic to Indonesia, small size (~24 cm).
   • Dominant brick-red coat with yellowish-brown eyes.
   • Very pointed green beak.

7. Celepuk Gunung

   • Also found in India, Bhutan, Nepal, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Thailand.
   • Unique sound resembling a short high note (like radar).

8. Brown Punggok

   • Medium-sized, dominated by brown fur.
   • Appearance resembles an eagle with dark plumage and brown eyes.