Diversity of Grassland Birds Found

The survey conducted in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve has resulted in the identification of 43 grassland bird species, marking a significant milestone in the conservation of avian biodiversity in India's Brahmaputra floodplains.

Key Highlights:

• Survey Duration and Team: The survey took place from March 18 to May 25, 2025, and involved a collaboration of forest officials, ornithologists, scientists, and conservationists.

• Bird Species Identified:

  • A total of 43 grassland bird species were documented across Kaziranga’s wildlife divisions.
  • Notable findings include:
    • Critically Endangered: Bengal florican
    • Endangered: Finn’s weaver, swamp grass babbler
    • Vulnerable Species: Black-breasted parrotbill, marsh babbler, swamp francolin, Jerdon’s babbler, slender-billed babbler, bristled grassbird.

• Successful Breeding: The Finn’s weaver, also known locally as tukura chorai, is successfully breeding, indicating the health of the grassland ecosystem. This bird is recognized for its intricate nesting abilities.

• Significant Area: Kaziranga National Park spans 1,174 square kilometers, comprising a mixture of grasslands, forests, and wetlands. This diversity contributes to its status as a critical habitat for various avian species.

• Research Methodology: For the first time, passive acoustic recorders were used for non-invasive, continuous monitoring of bird species, particularly those that are elusive. This technology greatly enhanced the accuracy of species detection.

• Importance of Findings:

  • The study revealed critical grassland habitats within Kaziranga that support populations of threatened and endemic bird species.
  • Additionally, the findings allow for comparisons of grassland bird diversity in Kaziranga with that of dry grasslands in other Indian states like Gujarat and Rajasthan.

• Director's Insights: Sonali Ghosh, director of Kaziranga National Park, noted the lack of prior surveys on wet grasslands in India, enhancing the importance of this study.

• Conclusion: The report was made public on July 14, 2025, emphasizing the need for ongoing conservation efforts for grassland-dependent bird species in the context of rapid environmental changes and habitat loss.

This survey not only documents existing bird populations but also contributes to broader conservation strategies aimed at protecting diverse habitats within the park, aligning with national biodiversity agendas and sustainable development goals.