How does the soft volume of the Eurasian scops owl’s calls affect the chances of hearing it on a nature walk in Mallorca?

The soft volume of the Eurasian scops owl’s calls significantly reduces the chances of hearing it during a nature walk in Mallorca. These owls are small and elusive, and their vocalizations are typically gentle, often described as a quiet, repetitive “kek-kek” or “whit.” Because their calls lack the loudness of some other owl species, they can easily be masked by ambient sounds such as wind rustling through leaves, distant traffic, or even the murmur of passing walkers. This subtlety means that unless you are in close proximity and particularly attentive, it is quite easy to miss hearing them altogether.

Furthermore, the Eurasian scops owl’s calls tend to be infrequent and brief, which compounds the difficulty in detecting them. Their calls are more likely to be heard during the breeding season at dusk or night, when the forest or scrub habitats around Mallorca become quieter and the owls are more vocally active. Even then, their soft volume demands a patient ear and often a quiet environment to catch these gentle sounds. For nature enthusiasts hoping to identify or enjoy the presence of scops owls, this means early evening or nighttime walks in less disturbed, natural areas offer the best chance of hearing their delicate calls.

Overall, the quiet nature of the Eurasian scops owl’s vocalizations makes the experience of detecting them a subtle and rewarding part of a nature walk in Mallorca. It encourages a slower pace and heightened awareness of the surroundings, allowing walkers to attune themselves to the many gentle sounds of the island’s nocturnal wildlife. While the soft volume presents a challenge, it also adds to the sense of mystery and charm that surrounds this diminutive and secretive owl species.