Wildlife Research and Conservation Society

BACKGROUND

The Forest Owlet (Athene blewitti) is India’s only mainland endemic and endangered owl species. Its limited and fragmented population faces significant threats from habitat degradation. In Madhya Pradesh, small populations of the Forest Owlet are found in the Reserved Forests of Khandwa and Burhanpur districts. These forests are not only important for wildlife but are also used by the Forest Department for timber extraction and by local communities for fuelwood collection, livestock grazing, and small-scale wood cutting.

Given the endangered status of the Forest Owlet, it is critical to conserve and manage these forest habitats effectively to prevent further decline in population and habitat quality.

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PROJECT GOAL

 This project aims to enhance our ongoing efforts to protect the Forest Owlet by integrating scientific research, habitat protection, and community-based conservation strategies.

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Key objectives of this initiative include:

• Monitoring Forest Owlet populations in Khandwa and Burhanpur to track numbers and distribution.

• Studying breeding success and movement patterns using advanced tools such as radio telemetry.

• Assessing habitat quality and connectivity through landscape genetics, which will be led by Dr. Uma Ramakrishnan, a molecular ecologist from the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS), Bangalore.

Globally, human-induced changes are disrupting forest landscapes, leading to fragmentation and isolation of wildlife populations. By analyzing genetic data in relation to landscape features, we aim to understand how these changes affect Forest Owlet connectivity and long-term survival.

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LONG-TERM VISION

The overall goal of this project is to develop a holistic conservation strategy that balances ecological needs with sustainable resource use. By combining scientific research, forestry management, and community participation, we strive to protect the remaining Forest Owlet habitats in central India and ensure a future for this rare and elusive bird.

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PARTNERS