Description: Ketupa ketupu, commonly known as the Buffy Fish Owl, is a medium-sized owl species found in Southeast Asia. It is recognized by its long ear tufts, broad yellow eyes, and buff-colored underparts marked with dark vertical streaks. The upper parts are mostly dark brown with mottled patterns that help the bird blend into tree branches and forest surroundings. Unlike many other owl species, its facial disc is less pronounced. Another distinctive characteristic is its unfeathered lower legs, which help keep the feathers dry while hunting near water.
Related species: The Buffy Fish Owl is closely related to other fish owls in Asia, including Ketupa zeylonensis and Ketupa flavipes. These species share similar habits and are usually associated with aquatic habitats.
Ecology: This owl is mainly active at night and is commonly found near rivers, lakes, swamps, mangroves, and other wetland habitats. Fish form an important part of its diet, although it may also prey on frogs, crabs, reptiles, insects, and small mammals. The species often hunts from low branches overlooking the water before swooping down on its prey. Unlike many owls that rely on completely silent flight, the Buffy Fish Owl may produce slight swing sounds while flying, as it hunts aquatic prey that are generally less sensitive to sound than terrestrial animals.
General distribution: Ketupa ketupu is widely distributed across Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and parts of northeastern India. In Indonesia, the species can be found in Sumatra, Java, Bali, and Kalimantan.
Additional information: According to the IUCN Red List, the Buffy Fish Owl is currently classified as Least Concern, although habitat destruction, water pollution, and illegal wildlife trade may affect some local populations.
Author of text and photos: Renna Maulana
Photographed in Rumah Ulin Arya, Samarinda, East Kalimantan, Indonesia, on 10 May 2026.
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