Title of article :
PHARAOH EAGLE-OWL BUBO ASCALAPHUS (SAVIGNY, 1809) (STRIGIFORMES, STRIGIDAE), THE “SHROUDED IN MYSTERY” OWL OF IRAQ and IRAN
Author/Authors :
Al-Sheikhly, Omar F Department of Biology - College of Science - University of Baghdad - Baghdad, Iraq , Mikkola, Heimo University of Eastern Finland - Kuopio, Finland , Mousav, Seyd B ndependent Researcher - Islamic Republic of Iran
Abstract :
The easternmost extent of the Pharaoh Eagle-Owl Bubo ascalaphus(Savigny, 1809) distribution has remained enigmatic due to identification problems and lack of owl research. In Iraq, B. ascalaphushas been reported from only few localities in western Iraqi deserts; while its occurrence in Iran has not been reported before this study. In 2017–2020, several new records of B. ascalaphusin western through southeastern Iraq were made and a new distribution range in western Iran was confirmed. Furthermore, field identification, interspecific relationships and conservation status of B. ascalaphusin Iraq and Iran were comprehensively discussed.
Keywords :
Conservation , Eagle-owl , Field identification , Iraq , Iran
Journal title :
Bulletin of the Iraq Natural History Museum
