Conservation Status
Conservation hubFaces a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
The Serendib scops owl faces threats from habitat loss and degradation due to deforestation. While specific recovery programs are still developing, ongoing conservation efforts focus on protecting its remaining forest habitats. Responsible safari tourism can help by raising awareness, supporting local conservation initiatives through park fees, and discouraging activities that harm the owl's environment.
The Serendib scops owl is the most recently discovered bird of Sri Lanka. It was originally located by its unfamiliar poo-ooo call in the Kitulgala rainforest by prominent Sri Lankan ornithologist Deepal Warakagoda. Six years later, it was finally seen by him on 23 January 2001 in Sinharaja, and formally described as a species new to science in 2004. Apart from Sinharaja and Kitulgala, it has also been found at Runakanda Reserve in Morapitiya and Eratna Gilimale. It is known as පඬුවන් බස්සා in Sinhala.
Description adapted from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where to Find
Top parks for Serendib Scops-Owl. Sightings recorded in 6 safari areas total.
Best Safari Destinations
Loading safari destinations...
Ready to see Serendib Scops-Owl in the wild?
Use our tools to find the right park and plan your trip.