Photos from BirdsInBackyards.net
The Rufous Owl (rufous means reddish brown) is a pretty rare owl that lives mainly in rainforests of North Australia and New Guinea.
It is very shy and not seen very often. It is a strong owl for its size, taking prey from insects all the way to flying foxes.
Bowling pin is a perfect description! I was thinking what a great, odd-looking owl, and that sums it up perfectly.