43 species make Kaziranga leading grassland bird habitat
This establishes Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) as a leading grassland bird habitat in India, park officials said on Monday.
A total of 43 grassland bird species were recorded, along with several species endemic to the region, as per the IUCN Red List. The publication of KNPTR's first grassland bird survey report marks a vital step in wildlife conservation across the northeast. This detailed documentation acts as an essential reference for understanding and protecting bird species dependent on the Brahmaputra floodplains' grassland ecosystems.
"Thrilled to share that @kaziranga_'s first-ever grassland survey recorded 43 grassland bird species—including 1 Critically Endangered, 2 Endangered, and 6 Vulnerable species, plus several regional endemics. The Brahmaputra floodplain ecosystem boasts the highest diversity of grassland obligate birds in India, reflecting the habitat's robust health and effective protection. Our commitment to science-backed management continues strong!" state forest minister Chandra Mohan Patowary wrote on X on Monday.
Patowary expressed satisfaction regarding the endangered Finn's Weaver (Ploceus megarhynchus), known locally as tukura chorai, successfully breeding in Kaziranga. "This remarkable bird, a LIFER for birdwatchers, is also a master nest-builder atop trees, and is a vital indicator of grassland health. A proud moment for conservation and habitat management!" Patowary added.
KNPTR field director Sonali Ghosh highlighted that the survey concentrated on ten focal species that are globally threatened or endemic to the Brahmaputra floodplains — Bengal Florican, Swamp Francolin, Finn's Weaver, Swamp Grass Babbler, Jerdon's Babbler, Slender-billed Babbler, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Marsh Babbler, Bristled Grassbird, and Indian Grassbird.
Ghosh noted the significant discovery of the endangered Finn's Weaver breeding colony at Kaziranga. "This remarkable bird (a LIFER for many birdwatchers), a master nest-builder atop trees, is a vital indicator of grassland health," she said.
The recorded species function as ecological indicators of floodplain grasslands' health and integrity. The study utilised passive acoustic recorders for non-invasive monitoring in difficult-to-access areas, improving detection of elusive birds and enhancing result accuracy.
The report establishes a foundation for long-term grassland bird conservation and emphasises continued ecological monitoring.
"This pioneering work reaffirms Kaziranga's stature not only as a stronghold for charismatic megafauna but also as a critical refuge for avian biodiversity within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot," Ghosh added. She said the report demonstrates the integration of scientific methods in protected area management, providing a framework for other landscapes.
The report resulted from collaboration between forest officials, scientists, and conservationists and numerous other specialists.
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