Pilibhit: The administration of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh has stepped up wildlife protection measures ahead of Diwali, with particular attention to the possibility of owl hunting and trafficking driven by superstitious beliefs.
Forest officials have increased patrolling across all five ranges of the reserve and directed field teams to maintain close surveillance in sensitive areas. Special attention is being given to forest-fringe villages and areas along the India-Nepal border to monitor suspicious activities.
The precautionary measures have been initiated amid concerns that some people may attempt to capture or trade owls during the festival, owing to beliefs that their sacrifice or use in occult practices can bring wealth and prosperity.
Five Forest Ranges Put on Alert
The reserve administration has instructed officials in all five forest ranges to intensify surveillance and prevent possible attempts by poachers to enter forest areas.
Forest personnel are conducting regular patrols in vulnerable locations, including areas adjoining villages and forest stretches near the India-Nepal border.
The Deputy Director has directed range officials to remain particularly vigilant and keep track of suspicious movements in sensitive zones.
Concerns Over Owl Hunting Linked to Superstitions
According to forest officials, the demand for owls may rise around Diwali because of superstitious beliefs and practices associated with occult rituals.
Some people believe that sacrificing an owl, considered the vehicle of Goddess Lakshmi, can bring financial prosperity. However, these beliefs have no scientific basis.
The forest department has taken note of the possibility of owls being captured or illegally traded during this period. Special teams have been deployed to conduct regular patrols and protect owls as well as other wildlife.
Strict Action Against Poaching and Illegal Trade
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve Deputy Director Manish Singh (IFS: 2013), said special vigilance arrangements had been put in place across the reserve in view of Diwali.
He confirmed that forest personnel were carrying out intensive patrolling in all five ranges, with additional monitoring in sensitive forest areas and locations along the India-Nepal border.
Singh said the administration was treating concerns over owl hunting in the name of superstition and occult practices seriously. Any person found involved in hunting, illegally capturing or trafficking owls would face strict action under the applicable forest laws.
The reserve administration has also appealed to residents to reject superstitious practices and cooperate with the forest department in protecting owls and other wildlife.
Officials have emphasised that the festival should be celebrated without causing harm to birds or other animals.
