Tengmalm's Owl vs Northern Boobook

In short

Tengmalm's Owl and Northern Boobook can be tricky to distinguish, but key differences in facial markings and habitat preferences can help. Tengmalm's Owl has a more pronounced facial disc with white eyebrows, while the Northern Boobook's facial features are less distinct. Habitat preferences also differ, with Tengmalm's favoring boreal forests and the Boobook more often found in temperate and subtropical regions.

Identification tips

1. Look for the pronounced white eyebrows and facial disc of the Tengmalm's Owl. 2. Observe habitat: Tengmalm's in boreal forests, Northern Boobook in temperate regions. 3. Listen for vocalizations: whistled notes for Tengmalm's, soft hoots for Boobook. 4. Note size and shape: Tengmalm's is more compact.

Size

Tengmalm's Owl is slightly smaller and more compact than the Northern Boobook.

Plumage

Tengmalm's Owl has a more defined facial disc with white eyebrows and a mottled brown and white plumage. The Northern Boobook has a less distinct facial disc and tends to have a more uniform brown plumage.

Behaviour

Both species are nocturnal, but Tengmalm's Owl is more secretive and often roosts in dense coniferous forests, while the Northern Boobook can be more active at dusk and dawn.

Habitat

Tengmalm's Owl prefers boreal and montane forests, often in areas with dense coniferous trees. Northern Boobook is found in a wider range of habitats, including temperate and subtropical forests.

Voice

Tengmalm's Owl has a series of clear, whistled notes, while the Northern Boobook's call is a series of soft, repeated hoots.