A WATCHFUL GUARDIAN

A brown fish owl (Ketupa zeylonensis), photographed recently in Jhenaidah, fixes its piercing gaze on the camera as it perches quietly atop a high branch. This large nocturnal raptor, commonly found near rivers, canals, and wetlands, preys on fish and amphibians and plays a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance of Bangladesh’s wetland ecosystems. Recognisable by its piercing yellow eyes and powerful build, the brown fish owl is found all across South and Southeast Asia and is currently listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List.