Belonging to the family Strigidae and genus Athene, the forest owlet (Athene blewitti) is classified as a small species of owl. Its diminutive stature, coupled with distinctive white eyebrows and yellow eyes, is its signature appearance. Forest owlets primarily inhabit dense forests, woodlands, and plantations.
These nocturnal birds are adept at utilizing tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes for nesting purposes. Their diet consists predominantly of insects, small rodents, and occasionally other birds. Forest owlets play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance within their habitats by controlling rodent populations.