Dusky Eagle Owl spotted near Corbett Tiger Reserve

A pair of the rare Dusky Eagle Owl has been sighted in the Phato tourism zone of the Terai West Forest Division, located adjacent to the Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand. The sighting is being described as a significant ecological event, as the species was last officially recorded in the region more than 15 years ago, in 2010.

The rare pair was documented by naturalist Himanshu Tiruva, whose observation has drawn attention from forest officials and wildlife experts.

Elusive Raptor

The dusky eagle owl is known for its highly elusive behaviour and exceptional camouflage, which allows it to blend seamlessly into dense forest environments. The species is also extremely wary of human presence, making sightings uncommon.

Habitat and Behaviour

This powerful raptor typically inhabits thick riverside forests and old-growth trees, where it hunts small mammals and birds. Although primarily nocturnal, the owl can also be active during the daytime, especially in cloudy weather conditions.

Ecological Significance

Wildlife experts believe that the return of the dusky eagle owl indicates a stabilising and healthy forest ecosystem in the Terai landscape. While the area surrounding Corbett is globally known for its tiger population, the latest sighting highlights the region’s rich avian diversity and the importance of conserving its varied habitats.

Source: NIE