A rare sighting of the elusive Australasian (Australian) Grass Owl (Tyto longimembris) has been recorded at Maguri Motapung Beel in Assam’s Tinsukia district, marking another significant addition to the wetland’s rich bird diversity. The owl was spotted on July 11 during a birdwatching session involving visitors from Delhi. The observation is considered noteworthy because the species is highly secretive, nocturnal, and seldom seen in the wild.

Maguri Motapung Beel, located on the fringes of Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, is one of India’s premier birdwatching destinations. Its mosaic of wetlands, marshes, and grasslands provides ideal habitat for hundreds of resident and migratory bird species, making it an important site for avian conservation and ecotourism.

The Australasian Grass Owl is known for inhabiting tall grasslands and marshes, where its excellent camouflage and nocturnal habits make it difficult to detect. Wildlife experts say such sightings highlight the ecological importance of conserving Assam’s wetland-grassland ecosystems, which support several rare and threatened bird species.

The latest record further strengthens Maguri Motapung Beel’s reputation as a biodiversity hotspot and underscores the need for continued protection of its fragile habitats amid increasing environmental pressures.

wildlifeindianews #australiangrassowl #MaguriMotapungBeel #dibrusaikhowanationalpark