The Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) Wildlife of the Month (WOM) for March 2024 is the Philippine Scops Owl, scientifically known as Otus megalotis (Walden, 1875) from the family Strigidae. The name “Megalotis” means having a large erected ears. The wildlife is endemic to the Philippines and is labeled “Least Concern” in the IUCN Redlist Status.
The Philippine Scops Owl feeds on Insects and mammals. It is monogamous and lays 1-2 eggs a year.
By: JBBalatibat, AALimpiada, and MMCaña