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Brown Fish Owls
Fish Owls – Ketupa zeylonensis
Watch the video of the Fish Owl here: Click to view
Fish Owls (Ketupa zeylonensis) are fascinating creatures known for their mysterious behavior. We continue to study these unique birds to uncover more about their lives while ensuring we never disturb their natural habitat or disrupt their way of life.
Our Observation Tours
Since 2011, we have been organizing observation tours for Fish Owls. The information presented here is based on over 120 observations made since 2001, excluding the Covid period.
Initially, our observations focused on two pairs nesting by the lake. For nearly a decade, we conducted early morning boat tours, reaching nesting sites around 5:40 AM. While Fish Owls were sometimes spotted within minutes, at other times, they required more effort to locate. Despite this, our success rate always exceeded 99%, with more failures occurring only during the hotter months of late June and July. During these times, Fish Owls, apart from juveniles, were active only during the cooler nighttime hours.
Observation Areas and Seasonal Behavior
Lake Pairs
- April to June: Best period to observe Fish Owls at the lake.
- July to March: Owls become increasingly nocturnal and less visible.
- Notable Sightings: Occasionally spotted at unexpected locations, including water channels outside the lake.
Mountain Pairs
- Year-Round Observation: Possible in varied locations and times.
- Unique Habitat: Two pairs are known to inhabit the mountain area, with a larger number likely along the inaccessible canyon.
- Behavioral Variations: Nesting and roosting locations frequently change, making observations unpredictable.
Behavior of Adults and Juveniles
- Adults: More tolerant of human presence at the lake but remain discreet in mountain regions.
- Juveniles: Highly timid and prone to panic when approached by humans or disturbed by noise.
- Nesting Behavior: Male adults often stay near the nest during incubation, while females are rarely seen.
How We Conduct Observations
- Mountain Observations: Begin at 9:00 PM using dim, intermittent lighting to avoid disturbing the birds.
- Lake Observations: Early morning boat trips to the nesting sites, with efforts to minimize disturbance.
- Key Practices: Silence, limited light use, and strict adherence to wildlife conservation regulations.
Nesting and Breeding
- Annual Offspring: Typically, two chicks per pair are raised each year.
- Nest Consistency: Fish Owls rarely change their nests unless significantly disturbed.
- Recent Changes: In 2024, a mountain pair relocated their nest due to noise from camping and picnicking activities.
Conservation Notes
The Fish Owls' habitats are within protected wildlife zones, and unauthorized access is strictly prohibited. Fines apply for violations, and permission must be obtained from the Regional Directorates of Nature Conservation and National Parks.
Fish Owls remain a symbol of nature's mystery. Their ability to thrive in protected habitats and avoid human interference reflects their adaptability and resilience. Observing these birds responsibly is a privilege and a responsibility.
Watch the Fish Owl video here: Click to view