Taxonomically, some groups consider it to be a distinct species (Otus sulensis), others a subspecies of the Sulawesi scops owl, and yet others a subspecies of the Moluccan scops owl.
From a taxonomic perspective, various groups have differing opinions on its classification, with some considering it a distinct species (Otus sulensis) and others viewing it as a subspecies of either the Sulawesi or Moluccan scops owl.