Wildlife Research and Conservation Society

For over a decade, we at WRCS have been dedicated to the ecological research and conservation of the Forest Owlet (also known as Dooda in local Korku language) in Central India. Our work has brought to light several fascinating aspects of this intriguing endemic owl species. While forests are essential to its habitat, the Forest Owlet, like other owls, also utilizes forest areas interspersed with open spaces and farmlands for hunting. The Forest Owlet populations within Protected Areas are relatively secure, but those outside these areas face significant challenges.

​

Based on our findings, we had a productive discussion with Mr. Shubharanjan Sen (PCCF Wildlife) on May 7, 2025, regarding the status of the Forest Owlet in our project area. This was followed by a high-impact meeting on June 17, 2025, at Van Bhavan, Bhopal. The meeting was led by Mr. Aseem Shrivastava (Head of Forest Force, Madhya Pradesh) along with Mr. Subharanjan Sen (PCCF Wildlife), Mr. Manoj Agarwal (PCCF Protection), Mr. L. Krishnamurthy (APCCF Wildlife), Mr. Ramesh Ganawa (CCF Khandwa), Mr. Rakesh Kumar Damor (DFO Khandwa), and Mr. Vidya Bhushan Singh (DFO Burhanpur). Dr. Prachi Mehta, Mr. Jayant Kulkarni, and Mr. Pradyut Rao represented WRCS and discussed the current situation in the Forest Owlet habitat. It was encouraging to note that all officers present at the meeting agreed on the need to address these issues and provided valuable suggestions for protecting the Forest Owlet. Following this meeting, we have seen even stronger support from local forest officers for the protection of the Forest Owlet in the project area.

​

For over ten years, we have collaborated with the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department, the MP Biodiversity Board, and local officers at our various project sites. This partnership has been very rewarding and has led to excellent outcomes. We are grateful to the Forest Department for their collaborative approach. We also gratefully acknowledge the support from The Habitats Trust, New Delhi, and the Raptor Research and Conservation Foundation (RRCF), Mumbai.