The New Britain boobook (Ninox odiosa) is a species of owl belonging to the family Strigidae, which encompasses typical owls. It is a raptor endemic to the island of New Britain, a large island in the Bismarck Archipelago, politically part of Papua New Guinea. This species is also sometimes referred to as the New Britain hawk-owl.
Physically, the New Britain boobook is a relatively small to medium-sized owl, characterized by its reddish-brown upperparts that may exhibit fine barring. Its underparts are typically paler, often whitish or buff, and can feature distinct spots or streaks. A prominent feature is its striking bright yellow irises, which contrast with its generally dusky facial disc. As a nocturnal predator, its diet primarily consists of insects and small vertebrates, which it hunts within its forest habitat.
The natural habitat of the New Britain boobook includes subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. While its population is currently considered stable and the species is classified as 'Least Concern' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), like many island endemics, it remains vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation resulting from deforestation and other human activities within its restricted geographical range.