Spotted Owlets Live As Family

 Spotted Owlets (athene brama) are a common and beloved sight in Bengaluru, often found even in bustling urban areas. They are highly adaptable and their family life revolves significantly around the use of trees for roosting, nesting, and raising their young.

Spotted Owlets are primarily cavity nesters, they rely on natural hollows in tree trunks or branches for their homes. These cavities offer crucial protection from predators (like crows, snakes, and even larger owls) and adverse weather conditions. During the day, they are often seen huddled together in small groups within these tree hollows or perched on nearby branches, blending remarkably well with the bark. This communal roosting, especially during the day when they are less active, highlights their social nature within the family unit. Large trees with wide canopies and thick foliage, are preferred as they offer excellent camouflage and shelter.

Spotted Owlets are generally found in pairs or small family parties of three or four. While the social organisation isn't fully understood, their tendency to roost together and the intense parental care observed during breeding clearly demonstrate a strong family bond centreed around their chosen tree homes.