The marsh owl (Asio capensis) is a medium to large species of owl in the family Strigidae.

Description

Medium-sized, dark brown with a pumpkin-shaped head with small 'ear' tufts. The facial disc is pale buff, with a distinct dark brown rim with buff speckles. There is a dark brown area around the eyes, which are also dark brown. Its ear-tufts are earth-brown and quite small, often not visible, and set near the centre of the forehead. typically near marshy grounds, vleis or dams. Marsh owls prefer to nest on the ground Although veld fires are necessary for maintaining the grassland's ecosystem, it should be limited to a 5-year cycle instead of an annual event. Irresponsible burning of veld robs wildlife of habitat and in the case of marsh owls, it has a huge impact on their breeding and population.

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Asio capensis tingitanus MHNT.ZOO.2010.11.158.7.jpg|Egg of Asio capensis tingitanus - MHNT

Baby Marsh Owls.jpg|Two chicks rescued by the Owl Rescue Centre in South Africa

Marsh Owl nesting in the grass.jpg|Close-up of the head

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References

  • Marsh Owl – Species text in The Atlas of Southern African Birds.