This medium-sized owl species was found only in New Zealand and died out early in the 20th century. The last recorded sighting was in 1914. The white-faced owl lived in rocky open landscapes and on the edge of forests. It is believed that the birds spent most of their time close to the ground. Hunting, changes in habitat, and the introduction of non-native predatory mammals to New Zealand probably have all contributed directly to its extinction.
Interested in Natural history?
Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.