Birds are an essential part of our ecosystem, playing a significant role in maintaining balance in nature. India hosts an incredible diversity of bird species, but some of the birds are increasingly rare due to their low population and various environmental pressures. Here is a list of the seven rare bird species in India, along with the regions they belong to and the reasons for their rarity.
Here are the top seven birds who are at risk:
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Great Indian Bustard:
The Great Indian Bustard is a large bird found on the Indian subcontinent. Known for its horizontal body and long, bare legs, it is among the heaviest flying birds. Historically common in dry grasslands and shrublands, the population has dramatically declined, with only about 150 individuals estimated to remain as of 2018.
White-bellied Heron:
The White-bellied Heron, also known as the Imperial Heron, resides in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas, from northeast India and Bhutan to northern Myanmar. This large heron inhabits undisturbed rivers and wetlands, with a global population of less than 250 mature individuals. It is mostly dark grey, with a white throat and underparts.
Jerdon's Courser:
Jerdon's Courser is a nocturnal bird endemic to India. Discovered in 1848, it was not seen again until its rediscovery in 1986. This courser is found in the Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh, specifically within the Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary, where it inhabits sparse scrub forest with patches of bare ground.
Forest Owlet:
Endemic to the forests of central India, the Forest Owlet is a member of the owl family Strigidae. First described in 1873, it is a rare sight due to its limited distribution and specialised habitat.
Bengal Florican:
The Bengal Florican, also known as the Bengal Bustard, is native to the Indian subcontinent, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It is the only species in the genus Houbaropsis, making it a rare and unique bird in its range.
Himalayan Quail:
The Himalayan Quail, or Mountain Quail, was last reported in 1876 and is feared to be extinct. Known from only two locations in the western Himalayas in Uttarakhand, north-west India, the last verifiable record was near the hill station of Mussoorie.
Sociable Lapwing:
The Sociable Lapwing is a migratory wader that breeds in Kazakhstan and winters in the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Sudan. Historically referred to as the Black-bellied Lapwing, it is a rare visitor to its wintering grounds.