35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Strigiformes; Family: Tytoridae; Genus: Tyto; Genus species: Tyto novaehollandiae. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 33-46 cm; Weight: 1.3 kg; Identification: The Australian masked owl has black-brown upperparts flecked with white, a buff barring on the wings and back, pale underparts, black spots on the breast and flanks, and a white facial disc with brown edges. The female is larger than the male; Habitat: Forests, woodlands, caves; Diet: Carnivore: rodents, birds, small to medium mammals; Reproduction: Depending on the conditions, masked owls can breed any time of the year. Most eggs, however, are laid from March to July. Females lay 3-5 eggs and incubate them for 42 days. Fledging occurs at 10-12 weeks of age; Behavior: The masked owl is a nomadic species; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: This owl consistently breeds on, or under, rock ledges in Australia.