Kaziranga Emerges as Hub for Grassland Bird Diversity

Quick Summary

• Researchers conducted the first grassland bird survey in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve, spanning March 18 to may 25, 2025.
• The survey recorded 43 grassland bird species across three wildlife divisions, including critically endangered Bengal florican and endangered Finn’s weaver.
• Six vulnerable species where identified: black-breasted parrotbill, marsh babbler, swamp francolin, Jerdon’s babbler, slender-billed babbler, and bristled grassbird.
• The Finn’s weaver-a vital indicator of grassland health-was found breeding successfully in the Kohora Range.
• Passive acoustic recorders enabled continuous monitoring for improved accuracy in detecting shy or cryptic birds.
• Kaziranga encompasses diverse habitats such as wetlands and forests alongside grasslands significant for conservation of local avifauna.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The pioneering survey highlights the rich biodiversity that wet grasslands like Kaziranga harbor.Documenting rare species serves as a clarion call for enhanced conservation efforts aimed at protecting fragile ecosystems from threats such as habitat loss. the identification of critical habitats within the park reinforces its role as a biodiversity hotspot while underscoring potential parallels with other regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan’s dry grasslands. Innovations like passive acoustic monitoring represent promising advancements in ecological research that can refine future conservation strategies nationally. Focused management to preserve these specific habitats could ensure survival not only for endemic avian populations but also broader ecological benefits tied to healthy floodplains.Read More: [Link provided by input]