Wildlife Research and Conservation Society

BACKGROUND

Since 2006, the WRCS has been actively engaged in studying the ecology, occupancy, habitat preferences, and conservation of the Forest Owlet a rare and elusive diurnal owl species. Although its presence has been confirmed in scattered populations across Central India, including parts of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, the exact population size of this critically endangered bird remains uncertain.

This knowledge gap stems from various challenges associated with detecting the Forest Owlet in the wild. Its cryptic behavior, coupled with a highly specific and fragmented habitat, makes it difficult to spot and monitor through conventional survey methods. As a result, there is an urgent need to develop species-specific techniques and standardized field protocols that are suitable for locating and studying rare birds like the Forest Owlet. Such targeted efforts are essential to accurately assess their population status and inform effective conservation strategies.

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PROJECT GOAL

The main objective of this project is to accurately estimate the number of Forest Owlet adult individuals in the wild, addressing the gap in knowledge while simultaneously helping to produce baseline data of their numbers to better inform future conservation efforts.

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LONG TERM VISION

Our long-term goal is to ensure the species’ survival through a comprehensive, science-based, and ecological research.

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PARTNERS