The Spotted Owlet is the commonest owl in our area and throughout India. It is widespread, occurring in all sorts of habitats as long as there are trees or old buildings. It prefers open woodland, old trees along roads and canals and trees near temples. It occupies large gardens and parks including the grounds of ancient monuments and modern institutions right through the city. Insects are its main prey but it will also take small birds, rodents and reptiles.

It nests in the winter months in a hole in a tree or building and it will use man-made nest boxes. It only requires quite a small territory and seems to be relatively sociable. Spotted Owlets are one of the least nocturnal of owls and frequently hunt in the morning and evening. Normally they are spotted roosting on a large tree branch, in pairs or in family parties. They can also be quite noisy in the daytime, making a harsh “churew” call that often extends into a manic cackle.