Fact: A relatively large owl with yellow or orange eyes and generally tawny plumage with black and white markings. Like most other owls, they are nocturnal and rely on their exceptional eyesight for hunting preys.
Habitat: Rocky deserts and semi-deserts, gorges, cliffs and rocky mountain slopes.
Threats: Although globally not threatened, the main threat is persecution in certain localities where they are viewed as ‘evil spirits’ and killed on sight. Range: Northwest Africa, Syria, Iraq, and Arabian Peninsula including UAE.