Lesser Masked-Owl Tyto sororcula

A poorly known barn-owl confined to Buru Island and the Tanimbar Islands. The pale buff face is surrounded by a conspicuous heart-shaped dark border. Underparts range from whitish on Tanimbar to buff on Buru, with scattered, well spaced dark spots and speckles. Upperparts, nape, and crown dark brownish with scattered buff markings and white spots. Thought to inhabit forests in lowlands and foothills. Readily recognized, being the only barn-owl species in range. Gives a harsh hissing call, characteristic of barn-owl family.