Editorial photo #14005298 Human Interest
Nepal: Wildlife – Spotted Owlet
Spotted owlets perch on the wall of a house on the outskirts of Kathmandu, Nepal, on July 25, 2026. Owls are found throughout Nepal, inhabiting forests, grasslands, wetlands, farmlands, and human settlements from the tropical Terai to the Himalayan highlands. As nocturnal birds of prey, they control rodent and insect populations. During the monsoon months, from June to August, young owlets are frequently seen after fledging as they leave their nests and gradually develop essential hunting and survival skills under the care of their parents. Many owl species in Nepal face threats from habitat loss, illegal wildlife trade, persecution driven by superstition, poisoning, and increasing human disturbance. (Photo by Safal Prakash Shrestha/NurPhoto)