The vast, arid grasslands of India are home to a majestic and critically endangered bird—the Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps). Once found widely across the Indian subcontinent, this iconic bird now teeters on the brink of extinction. Tall, elegant, and noble in demeanor, the Great Indian Bustard is not just a symbol of the Indian grasslands but also a poignant reminder of the fragile balance between wildlife and development.
The Elusive Great Indian Bustard
Also known as the “Godawan,” the Great Indian Bustard is the state bird of Rajasthan and a critically endangered species that primarily inhabits dry grasslands. These majestic birds are easily recognizable with their distinctive black crown contrasting against their pale neck and head, accompanied by a brownish body and wings marked with black, brown, and grey hues.
Waterhole Census: A Strategic Approach
Wildlife conservationists often employ the waterhole technique during the sweltering summer months to accurately count the wildlife population in a given area. In preparation for the 2024 census, forest officials strategically constructed 42 waterholes within the National Desert Park. A dedicated team of 84 officers was deployed on watchtowers near these waterholes throughout the census period.
Historic Range and Decline
Historically, the Great Indian Bustard was found across large parts of the Indian subcontinent, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. There were even scattered populations in Pakistan.
However, over the past five decades, its numbers have plummeted alarmingly. Today, the bird is critically endangered, with fewer than 150 individuals remaining in the wild. Most of these are found in Rajasthan, particularly within and around the Desert National Park in the Thar Desert near Jaisalmer.
Why the Great Indian Bustard Is Endangered
Several factors have contributed to the near-extinction of this magnificent species:
1. Habitat Loss
India’s grasslands have long been misunderstood as “wastelands” and have suffered large-scale conversion for agriculture, mining, urban expansion, and infrastructure projects. The destruction of native grassland habitat has left the bustards with few safe areas to live and breed.
2. Collision with Power Lines
One of the most immediate and deadly threats to the Great Indian Bustard is collision with high-voltage power lines. The bird’s poor frontal vision and large wingspan make it vulnerable to hitting wires mid-flight. Dozens have died this way, pushing the species closer to extinction.
3. Predation
Bustard nests are simple scrapes in the ground. Eggs and chicks are often eaten by predators like jackals, foxes, mongoose, and feral dogs. The loss of one egg is a huge blow since the female lays only one egg per year.
4. Human Disturbance
Tourism, cattle grazing, and human activity near nesting areas disturb bustards during their sensitive breeding season. Many nests are abandoned due to unintentional intrusion by people.
5. Lack of Awareness
Despite being Rajasthan’s state bird, many people are unaware of the Great Indian Bustard’s plight. Conservation education has lagged, and without local community support, many protective measures fail.
Desert National Park: The Last Stronghold
Located near Jaisalmer, the Desert National Park is the most reliable place to see the Great Indian Bustard in the wild. The park spreads over 3,162 square kilometers and showcases the unique desert ecosystem of western Rajasthan.
The best time to visit is October to March, when temperatures are moderate, and the birds are easier to spot in the open grasslands. With the help of trained local guides and forest staff, tourists can undertake early morning or late afternoon safaris to spot these elusive birds.
Other wildlife species in the park include:
- Chinkara (Indian gazelle)
- Desert fox
- Indian hedgehog
- Spiny-tailed lizard
- Over 120 bird species including eagles, vultures, and harriers
