IN PHOTOS: Spot these 6 beautiful owl species in SGNP and Aarey Forest in Mumbai

Every year, International Owl Awareness Day is celebrated annually on August 4 to create awareness about the different species of the bird. Naturalist and wildlife photographer Mahesh Yadav has documented six species of owls found in Mumbai, and here's all you need to know about them (Story by Ranjeet Jadhav)

Updated On: 2025-08-04 04:41 PM IST

Compiled by : Nascimento Pinto

Aarey Forest, often called Mumbai's "Green Lung," is a crucial urban biodiversity hotspot and owls are among its most fascinating inhabitants. Photo Courtesy: Mahesh Yadav

Spotted Owlet is a common, small owl with bright yellow eyes, usually active around dusk and dawn

Barn Owl is easily recognised by its heart-shaped face, it's a silent hunter commonly found in Aarey around barns and building structures

Brown Hawk-Owl or Brown boobook is a medium-sized owl that looks somewhat like a hawk and is known for its swift flight

Jungle Owlet is a small owl is unique because it's active during the day and has high-pitched calls

Mottled Wood Owl is a large, distinctive owl that prefers wooded areas and is known for its deep hoot

Indian Scops Owl is a smaller, well-camouflaged owl often heard near the edges of the forest

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