- Tyto capensis
Identification
The upperparts are dark brown and the underparts whitish. Round face.
Distribution
Sub Saharan Africa.
Taxonomy
Until recently, the Eastern Grass Owl was considered to be part of the present species which at that time was known only as "Grass Owl".
This is a monotypic species.
Habitat
Wet grasslands.
Behaviour
It roosts and nests on the ground, forming tunnels in the grass.
They are largely nocturnal, emerging shortly after dusk.
The diet includes rodents, particularly Vlei Rats, but also birds, reptiles, frogs and insects.