Saturday, May 31, 2025

Buffy Fish Owl in Bird Park for Saturday Critter

 


During my visit to a distinguished bird park in Japan, I found myself seated amidst a group of kindergarten children, quietly delighting in an educational lecture on the avian wonders of the world. Among the many splendid species exhibited, one particular creature drew my attention—a striking owl perched solemnly before us.

This noble bird was the Buffy Fish Owl (Ketupa ketupu), a species native to the dense riverine forests and mangroves of Southeast Asia. Recognisable by its bold yellow eyes, long lateral ear tufts, and mottled tawny plumage, the Buffy Fish Owl is uniquely adapted to its riparian habitat. Unlike many of its nocturnal kin, this owl is often crepuscular, most active at dawn and dusk, where it employs remarkable patience and keen vision to prey upon fish, crustaceans, amphibians, and small reptiles.

Unlike owls that rely solely on silent flight, the Buffy Fish Owl often perches low over water, striking swiftly when it sights movement beneath the surface. Its feather structure lacks the full silencing adaptations of other owls, a compromise in favor of resisting the moisture of its preferred environment.

As I listened to the naturalist’s words, surrounded by the innocent curiosity of children and the lush foliage of the park’s conservatory, I felt a profound appreciation for the marvels of avian biology—and for the rare opportunity to behold such a fascinating and elusive bird from distant shores.

Fujifilm XPRO2

Fujinon 16-55mm f2.8


Linking Saturday critter

Joel preferred to leave the coast behind and venture further into an urban setting, intending to experiment with the remaining bright lenses we had acquired for bokeh photography.


27 comments:

  1. I had not heard of this spectacular bird before. What a fascinating creature. Thanks for all that wonderful information.

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  2. What a beautiful owl 🦉 The expressions on the children's faces show their interest and fascination with this amazing bird. Lovely.

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  3. The Buffy Fish Owl is pretty amazing and stunning looking. Great photo.

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    1. There is no way I can hide in the bush for days looking for this sort of owl

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  4. This is a large and impressive owl. I especially appreciate it because we are birdwatchers. Never heard of this one!

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  5. Owls are amazing birds. No wonder they are associated with wisdom. Great subject for your photo.

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  6. Now THAT would be a remarkable experience. What a beautiful creature!

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  7. It is a very handsome bird, and thanks for the information about its life and habitat.

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  8. We were once visiting a Prarie nature centre in Winnipeg and were able to lurk on the edges of a class field trip and learn what they were learning.

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  9. What a beautiful owl and what a smart people who educate their children through experience!!
    In ancient Greece, the owl was considered the bird of Wisdom and a trademark of the goddess Athena and Athens (the capital)!

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  10. Impressive birds, owls.Seems like a memorable moment, this.

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  11. Good looking owl, thanks for telling us about it.

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  12. We have lots of birds, big and small. But I'm sorry to say I've never seen an owl where we live. I'd like to meet this one.

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  13. Love the Fish Owl, great capture of the kiddies and the Owl.
    Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Take care, have a great weekend. PS, thank you for leaving me a comment.

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  14. A beautiful owl, it was good to read the information about it too ... thank you.

    All the best Jan

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