Rescued Indian Eagle Owl Returns to Margalla Hills

News Desk

Islamabad:  A rescued Indian Eagle Owl has been returned to the wild in the Margalla Hills National Park after receiving medical treatment and rehabilitation, marking another successful wildlife rescue effort in the federal capital.

The owl was released in the Shah Allah Ditta area by the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) after it recovered from injuries sustained before being found in a residential area of Sector E-11.

The bird, scientifically known as Bubo bengalensis, was discovered in the garden of a house after a resident alerted wildlife officials. The rescue team shifted the injured owl to the IWMB rehabilitation centre, where it was provided medical care and monitored until it became fit for release.

IWMB officials said the Indian Eagle Owl, also known as the rock eagle owl or Bengal Eagle Owl, is a large horned owl species commonly found in rocky and hilly areas of the Indian subcontinent. In Islamabad, the species is frequently seen in the caves and natural habitats of the Margalla Hills National Park.

IWMB Chairperson Rina Saeed Khan said the owl was released back into a safe environment where it could return to its natural nocturnal routine. She explained that owls are active at night and rely on darkness for hunting and movement.

She added that the bird had been rescued after being found in a vulnerable condition and was handed over to the IWMB rescue centre for recovery before being returned to nature.

In a separate conservation effort, IWMB wildlife rangers also released a rescued spiny-tailed lizard back into its natural habitat. Officials highlighted that these reptiles face threats from illegal wildlife trade due to false beliefs surrounding their oil.

The wildlife authority has continued awareness campaigns to encourage public participation in protecting injured and endangered species. Residents are regularly urged to report trapped or injured animals so rescue teams can provide assistance.

IWMB officials said the board frequently receives reports of birds, including kites and buzzards, becoming trapped in kite strings or facing other dangers, with rescue teams working to rehabilitate and release them whenever possible.