Pearl spotted owlet

Introduction: The pearl-spotted owlet (Glaucidium perlatum) can be observed over a wide range of bushveld and woodland habitats, especially with the mopane tree. This species have been noted to be killed on roads or caught on fences.

Distribution: Widespread in northern and central Namibia including Etosha National Park, Windhoek, northern Skeleton Coast regions, Epupa Falls, Rundu and the Caprivi.

Diet: Hunts mainly at night from a low perch taking grasshoppers, crickets, beetles and small invertebrates such as rodents, bats, lizards, frogs, birds and snakes.

Description: Very small owls bereft of 'ear' tufts. They have strong legs, feet and bills. Glaucidium is Greek for 'a very small owl'. Perlatum is Latin for 'wearing pearls'. Often confused with the African barred owl.

Breeding: Nests in old barbet or woodpecker holes, sometimes lined with feathers. Females lay between 2 and 4 eggs with an incubation period of around 30 days.

Size: 20cm.

Weight: 65g.