Boobook owl
Ninox novaeseelandiae
Here at Banham Zoo
The boobook owl, also called the morepork owl, is Australia's most common owl. At Banham Zoo, our resident boobooks can often be seen perching on branches, watching over visitors.
As a nocturnal species, they become active at night. In the wild, they nest in tree cavities, where the female incubates the eggs for around 33 days while the male brings her food and stays nearby.
Where Do I Live?
New Zealand and on Norfolk Island
Boobook owls are found in New Zealand and on Norfolk Island. They live in forests and farmlands, and can also be seen in urban areas.
What Do I Eat?
The boobook owl feeds mainly on insects, but also takes small birds, mice and other small Mammals.
How Do I Breed?
It nests and roosts in tree cavities. A clutch of eggs is laid in a nest hollow. The female incubates the eggs for about 33 days, while the male brings her food and remains nearby.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Least Concern (LC)
Lowest risk of endangerment.
The boobook owl is not classed as endangered and its population is believed to be stable in the wild.
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
Boobook owl
located?
Our
Boobook owl
is located in our
Global Zone
, map reference
3
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.
