Context

• Pench Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra, has documented breeding of the Forest Eagle Owl, a first for the region.
• The discovery underscores the rich biodiversity and conservation significance of Central India's tiger reserves.
• Similar sightings have been reported from Madhya Pradesh's Pench and Kanha Tiger Reserves.

 Details

Key Points

• New Species Discovery:
  • The Forest Eagle Owl (Bubo nipalensis) breeding recorded in Pench Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra.
• Research Involvement:
  • Bird watchers and the Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF) played a crucial role in the discovery.
• Habitat Details:
  • Found in dense, moist deciduous forests with a high canopy, near Surewani village.
• Behavioural Study:
  • Recorded low-frequency calls of the Forest Eagle Owl using Raven Pro software for communication and territorial defence.
• Significance of Sightings:
  • Indicates the owl species may be widely distributed across the country, emphasizing the need for further ecological studies and conservation efforts.

 Pench Tiger Reserve (Maharashtra)

Location:

• Situated in Nagpur, Maharashtra.

 Biodiversity:

• Home to 367 avian species and diverse flora and fauna.

 Recent Discovery:

• First documented breeding of the Forest Eagle Owl (Bubo nipalensis) in Maharashtra Pench.

 Significance:

• Highlights the reserve's role as a vital breeding ground and its ecological richness.

 Pench Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh)

Location:

• Straddles Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

 Biodiversity:

• Known for its rich wildlife including tigers, leopards, and a variety of birds.

 Historical Context:

• Inspiration for Rudyard Kipling's "The Jungle Book."

 Conservation Efforts:

• Focuses on habitat preservation and anti-poaching

 Kanha Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh)

Location:

• Located in the Maikal Hills of the Satpura range in Madhya Pradesh.

 Biodiversity:

• Renowned for its population of Bengal tigers, barasingha (swamp deer), and other wildlife.

 Ecotourism:

• Prominent destination for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers.

 Conservation Initiatives:

• Emphasis on wildlife conservation, research, and sustainable tourism.

 Sources:

Times of India

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Forest Eagle Owl (Bubo nipalensis): The Forest Eagle Owl has been documented breeding in Pench Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra. This species is known for its high-frequency calls used for communication and territorial defense. The Forest Eagle Owl is typically found in dense evergreen and moist deciduous forests. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a)      1 and 3 only b)      2 and 3 only c)       1 and 2 only d)      1, 2, and 3 Answer: a)