In a heartening move for wildlife conservation, Telangana authorities have temporarily halted quarry operations in Yenakathala, Vikarabad district, after a Rock Eagle Owl was discovered nesting on a cliff edge inside the quarry. The discovery, made by birder and conservationist Manoj Kumar Vittapu, has brought attention to the importance of safeguarding sensitive raptor habitats across the region.
This incident highlights how timely citizen reporting and swift government action can directly contribute to the protection of endangered and sensitive species.
A Rare Nesting Site Discovered
During a visit to the stone quarry, Manoj Kumar — Joint Secretary of the Telangana Photographic Society — observed a large owl nesting among the rocks. After careful monitoring, he confirmed that the Rock Eagle Owl (Bubo bengalensis) was incubating eggs.
He immediately alerted forest officials, triggering rapid action from the Vikarabad Forest Department.
Mining Activities Stopped for Over a Month
Forest officials, led by Vikarabad District Forest Officer G. Gnaneshwar and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests C. Suvarna, inspected the site and instructed the quarry operator to stop all mining work for the next 30–35 days.
This pause ensures that:
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The owl can incubate its eggs safely
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The chicks can hatch and grow undisturbed
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The nesting site remains intact during the critical breeding phase
Officials emphasized that relocating raptor nests is not feasible, as these birds abandon their nests at the slightest disturbance.
Collaborative Conservation Effort
The swift response was made possible through coordinated efforts involving:
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Birders & wildlife photographers
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Forest section officer Inayath Ali
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Beat officer Mahesh
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Quarry contractor Laxma Reddy, who agreed to halt operations
The protected nest will now be monitored round-the-clock to ensure no disturbance until the young owlets safely disperse.
Why This Matters for Telangana’s Wildlife
The Rock Eagle Owl is a rare and sensitive species, often threatened by habitat loss, quarrying, and human interference. Discoveries like this highlight:
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The ecological value of rocky cliffs and scrub forests
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The need for environmental impact assessments near wildlife habitats
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The growing importance of community-led conservation
This case sets a hopeful precedent for wildlife protection across Telangana.
FAQ Section
1. Why was quarrying stopped in Vikarabad?
Mining was halted after a Rock Eagle Owl was found nesting on a cliff edge. The pause ensures safe incubation and hatching.
2. How long will mining be stopped?
Forest officials have paused quarry operations for 30–35 days, until the chicks hatch and safely disperse.
3. Can owl nests be relocated?
No. Raptor nests cannot be relocated because the birds abandon their nests when disturbed.
4. Who discovered the owl nest?
Birder and wildlife enthusiast Manoj Kumar Vittapu identified the nesting site and alerted the authorities.
5. Why is the Rock Eagle Owl important?
It is a sensitive species dependent on rocky habitats that are rapidly shrinking due to quarrying and land-use changes.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What is the Rock Eagle Owl?
A large nocturnal raptor native to India, known for nesting on cliffs and rocky crevices.
Is the Rock Eagle Owl endangered?
It is classified as Least Concern, but habitat loss and quarrying pose major threats.
Where are Rock Eagle Owls found in Telangana?
They inhabit rocky hills, scrub forests, and dry landscapes across Vikarabad, Mahabubnagar, and Nalgonda.
How do authorities protect nesting raptors?
By halting disruptive activities, monitoring nests, and enforcing wildlife protection laws.
Conclusion
The discovery of the Rock Eagle Owl nesting in Vikarabad is a powerful reminder that wildlife thrives even in unexpected places — and that timely action can make all the difference. Telangana’s decision to halt quarrying reflects a strong commitment to conservation. With continued cooperation between citizens, forest officials, and local communities, rare species like the Rock Eagle Owl can be protected for generations to come.
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