Top places to see the once-extinct Forest Owlet in India
Explore the top places in India to spot the elusive Forest Owlet, a bird once thought extinct. Discover its comeback story and the forests it now calls home.
What is the Forest Owlet? The Forest Owlet (Heteroglaux blewitti) is a critically endangered owl species endemic to central India. Once declared extinct, it was dramatically rediscovered in 1997 after 113 years. Small and stocky, with piercing yellow eyes and a heavily streaked appearance, this elusive bird is found only in a few dry deciduous forests. Spotting it requires expert guidance, patience, and a bit of luck. Here are the top 10 places to see the once-extinct Forest Owlet in India: (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Ronit Dutta)
2/11
1. Melghat Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra The stronghold of the Forest Owlet, Melghat’s dry teak forests, is where the species was rediscovered. Protected zones like Semadoh and Harisal offer guided birding tours with high chances of sighting, especially during winter. (Image credit: Canva)
3/11
2. Toranmal Forest, Maharashtra This remote hill station in Nandurbar district lies within a known Forest Owlet range. The dry, deciduous forests of the Satpura ranges here have recorded multiple sightings, making it a promising location for birdwatchers. (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Saswat Mishra)
4/11
3. Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra Located near Mumbai, Tansa is a lesser-known site with sporadic Forest Owlet sightings. Though harder to spot here, its proximity to urban centres makes it a viable day-trip destination for avid birders with a trained guide. (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Arpit Bansal)
4. Satpura Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh A newer hotspot for Forest Owlet enthusiasts, Satpura’s rugged landscape offers a habitat similar to Melghat. Sightings have increased in areas like Churna and Bori, where the bird blends in with old tree trunks and dry scrub. (Image credit: Canva)
6/11
5. Nandurbar Forest Division, Maharashtra Close to the Toranmal region, Nandurbar’s forests host a few known owlet territories. Birding groups working with the forest department help track nests and sightings, often in collaboration with local communities. (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Robert Tizard)
7/11
6. Khandwa and Burhanpur Forests, Madhya Pradesh These lesser-explored forests within the Satpura range are part of the historic range of the Forest Owlet. Rare sightings have been reported by researchers, and the landscape shows promise for future eco-tourism. (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Saswat Mishra)
8/11
7. Taloda Range, Maharashtra Taloda lies near the Nandurbar district and is emerging as a micro-habitat for the Forest Owlet. Birding treks organised by local NGOs have reported seasonal sightings during early mornings in post-monsoon months. (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Saswat Mishra)
8. Yawal Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra On the border of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, Yawal’s forests have yielded occasional sightings. With a blend of dense forest and open canopy patches, it supports suitable habitat conditions for the elusive owlet. (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Arpit Bansal)
10/11
9. Dediapada Forests, Gujarat Part of the eastern tribal belt of Gujarat, Dediapada has been a point of interest for ornithologists seeking new habitats. Though not a mainstream Forest Owlet zone yet, recent reports suggest its potential as a future hotspot. (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Saswat Mishra)
11/11
10. Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve, Madhya Pradesh Though not a confirmed stronghold, Pachmarhi’s vast protected forests overlap with historical Forest Owlet records. Trekking trails here occasionally offer sightings, particularly in undisturbed dry forest patches. (Image credit: macaulaylibrary.org | Saswat Mishra)
