Masked Owl - Nswfmpa.org

10.6 Timing of BreedingMasked Owls breed erratically, when conditions are favorable which can be any time ofthe year.Tyto novaehollandiae castenops, the Tasmanian race is a seasonal breeder with most egglaying in late October to early November (Higgins 1999).10.7 Age at First Breeding and Last BreedingAt Featherdale they have started to breed just after getting their adult feathers,approximately 2-3 years of age. Birds at 10-13 years are still successfully breeding todate November 2008. Older birds have laid eggs but the eggs have been infertile.10.8 Ability to Breed Every YearMasked Owls are able to breed every year if conditions are favorable.10.9 Ability to Breed More than Once Per YearMasked Owls have the ability to double clutch and can breed more than once in a singleyear.If eggs or young are removed Masked Owls can lay another clutch of eggs.10.10 Nesting, Hollow or Other RequirementsMasked Owls can nest on ledges in caves but will typically nest in vertical hollows 40-500cm deep in eucalypt trees. Nest materials may include soil, mulch, or sawdust.10.11 Breeding DietAt Featherdale Wildlife Park Masked Owls are fed a variety of foods all year round allthat is change around breeding time is the quantity of food. When courting behaviors andeggs are present the food is increased by almost ¼ per bird i.e. about the equivalent of 10day old chicks for the pair. When the masked owls have young food is increased byalmost 50% per bird i.e. the equivalent of 12 day old chicks for the pair.10.12 Incubation PeriodEggs are incubated for about 35 days, by the female. The female is fed in the nest by themale each night. (Readers Digest).10.13 Clutch SizeUsually 2-3 off-white oval shaped eggs, 43-50 x 35-38mm in size, are laid on alternatenights. (Readers Digest).42