This is one way to easily recognize this particular type and not mix it up with any other out there. Variable in size and color, ranging from larger, browner birds in Tasmania through to smaller, paler birds in northwestern Australia. This owl is often confused with the Eastern Barn Owl. Bruce, M.D. Authors. It roosts by day in dense foliage of tall trees or in hollow tree trunks, or sometimes in caves and holes between rocks. By joining the biggest community of bird lovers in Australia, you can help us make a positive impact on the future of our native birdlife. The Barn Owl is a slim and pale owl with a heart-shaped facial disc. Recommended Citation. The Australian Masked Owl offers a very interesting look. As the name implies, this species of owl looks like it has a white mask over the face. Voice: A screech similar to that of the Barn Owl, but louder and more rasping. 2002 revisions): This owl was previously widespread in Tasmania. 2001 revisions): Australian Masked-Owl ( Tyto novaehollandiae) Clements 5th edition (incl. 2000 revisions): Australian Masked-Owl ( Tyto novaehollandiae) Clements 5th edition (incl. They can also have areas of gray on them as well. Nests in a variety of habitats; requires hollows of very large trees for nest sites, and these may be in both drier and wetter forest types. Its upperparts are light grey with blotches of rich buff, covered with tiny, Member | Join now. Distribution: Oceania Australia, s New Guinea. A powerful Tyto owl, the Australian masked owl — a Tasmanian sub-species, is the largest Tyto owl in the world. Australian Masked-Owl ( Tyto novaehollandiae) Clements 5th edition (incl. Population numbers are low on the mainland and several states give this species special conservation status. Large owl with prominent facial disc and very powerful legs. Australian Masked Owl ssp castanops Tyto novaehollandiae castanops; Species Details; Observations; Maps; Photos; Sounds; Statistics; On/in; Names; Australian Masked Owl Tyto novaehollandiae. However, masked owls have much larger, powerful legs and a broader, rounded facial disc. The Masked Owl is Australia's largest ... Distribution: The range of the Masked Owl is a broad coastal band around most of mainland Australia and throughout Tasmania, and for the most part is less than 300 km from the coast. The Tasmanian masked owl (Tyto novaehollandiae castanops) is a bird in the barn owl family Tytonidae that is endemic to the island state of Tasmania, Australia.It is the largest subspecies of the Australian masked owl, the largest Tyto owl in the world, and is sometimes considered a full species. Habits: The Australian Masked Owl is a nocturnal, secretive bird. Australia - Julatten / Rex Hwy (QLD) (AU) 2009-09-13 Michel Veldt I've seen this species! The rest of the body has feathers that are light brown, dark brown, and black. There is also a wild cackling call that rises and falls in volume. Its plumage is highly variable. and J. S. Marks (2020). Murray D. Bruce and Jeffrey S. Marks.