Indian Eagle Owl– Eryr dylluan Bengal
Order Strigiformes
Family Strigidae
Genus Bubo
Also known as the Rock eagle owl.
This species is often considered the subspecies of the Eurasian eagle owl Bubo bubo and is very similar in appearance. the facial disc of this medium sized eagle owl is unmarked and has a thin brown border, a feature that is much weaker than the Eurasian form, the base of the primary flight feathers is un banded and Rufous, additionally a large pale scapular patch is more visible on the folded in wing. The taxonomy of this Group is suggested to be complex due to the amount of variation. G.P .Dementiev, the leading expert on birds of prey recognized for his extensive studies, was the first to consider the possibility of B. bengalensis being distinct with the Bubo bubo group, however Charles Vaurie noted that this species appeared to be distinct and not part of a clinal ( ie. gradual change, traits, characteristics) variation of.
the indian eagle owl is known as the farmers friend across the indian sub continent as this impressive, distinctive owl keeps rodent populations in check, hunting in rocky, hilly and forested areas. their plumage blending them in perfectly within each habitat during the day when this species roosts, making them challenging to spot
The Indian eagle owl have a nocturnal song, a deep resonant two note call, very characteristic, and males deliver this long calls mainly at dusk during the breeding season, with peak calling intensity in February. They are usually found in pairs, nesting on the ground, and rock crevices, ledges of ruins. young birds produce clicks and hisses and open up their wings when disturbed, nesting adults will fly in a zig zag pattern and mob any potential predator including humans who approach the nest.
their diet through much of the year consists of rodents, and birds seem to be taken towards winter, prey species include other raptors such as the shikra and black kite, and also spotted owlets. the Indian eagle owl has also occasionally been seen feeding on large beetles, large centipedes, and Indian rock scorpions.
this eagle owl is a beautiful and magnificent species commanding both mystery and admiration, and possess a sit and wait strategy when hunting
their call can travel several kilometers in the stillness of the night.
The Indian eagle owl is endemic to the Indian subcontinent, thriving in regions south of the Himalayas and at elevations below 1,500meters. this species avoids the humidity of the evergreen forests and extreme aridity of deserts.
in Hindu mythology this owl is also known as the Vahana, primarily referring to the mythological concept of a deitys animal mount ( vehicle) embodying the dietys power and often symbolizing character traits. and of Goddess Lakshmi symbolizing wisdom and prosperity.
conservation efforts are required however to raise awareness about ecological importance of this species to debunk old and harmful myths.
this species is not globally threatened, although not common in its range, and in some areas being generally solitary outside their breeding season, this species is classed as least concern, however they do face threats from habitat loss due to urbanization particularly in rocky, shrub covered landscapes. therefore this species is also listed in Appendix II of CITES, indicating that whilst it is not threatened with extinction, this species must be carefully monitored to ensure sustainable trade levels.