The Zoological Survey of India has recently unveiled a publication titled ’75 Endemic Birds of India,’ shedding light on the remarkable fact that roughly 5% of the avian population inhabiting the country are unique to its borders and are not found in any other part of the world.
This comprehensive report reveals that India boasts a rich avian diversity, hosting a total of 1,353 bird species, constituting a significant 12.40% of the global bird diversity. Among these 1,353 bird species, a noteworthy 78 species (referred to as endemic birds of India) are exclusively native to the country.
The primary aim of this publication is to disseminate vital information regarding the endemic birds of India to a wider audience, emphasizing the crucial efforts aimed at conserving these species that are exclusively confined to specific regions within the country.
Findings by Zoological Survey of India on Endemic Birds
Within the enchanting realm of India’s avian diversity, a fascinating revelation emerges: among the 78 notable species classified as endemic birds of India, three have remained elusive in recent decades. These enigmatic species include the Manipur Bush Quail (Perdicula manipurensis), categorized as ‘Endangered,’ the Himalayan Quail (Ophrysia superciliosa), bearing the critical ‘Critically Endangered’ status, and the elusive Jerdon’s Courser (Rhinoptilus bitorquatus), also listed as ‘Critically Endangered.’
The unveiling of ‘5 Endemic Birds of India’ coincides with India’s grand celebration of 75 years of Independence during the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ festivities. It’s a momentous occasion to shine a spotlight on these unique avian treasures found nowhere else on Earth.
Remarkably, the highest concentration of these endemic birds of India thrives in the lush expanse of the Western Ghats, with a staggering 28 distinct species. Among them are notable names like the Malabar Grey Hornbill (Ocyceros griseus), the vibrant Malabar Parakeet (Psittacula columboides), the charming Ashambu Laughing Thrush (Montecincla meridionalis), and the captivating White-bellied Sholakili (Sholicola albiventris).
The Eastern Himalayas, too, hold their own avian treasures, sheltering four unique species that stand proudly as endemic birds of India. Meanwhile, the Southern Deccan plateau and the central Indian forest each boast one exclusive avian gem.
However, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands reign as a true avian paradise, hosting a staggering 25 bird species that are endemic to these pristine islands. Among these treasures are the charismatic Nicobar Megapode (Megapodius nicobariensis), the graceful Nicobar Serpent Eagle (Spilornis klossi), the elusive Andaman Crake (Rallina canningi), and the mysterious Andaman Barn Owl (Tyto deroepstorffi).
As we celebrate India’s 75 years of independence, let us also celebrate and cherish the invaluable natural heritage represented by these endemic birds of India, which enrich the nation’s biodiversity and echo its unique ecological tapestry.
Wrapping Up
The publication underlines the pivotal role played by India’s endemic birds and underscores the pressing need for their conservation. These unique species, by their very nature, inhabit restricted habitats, making it imperative to safeguard these ecosystems to prevent their gradual decline.
Furthermore, the publication delves into the conservation status of the endemic birds of India, revealing that among the 78 species classified as such, a concerning 25 find themselves labeled as ‘Threatened’ by the IUCN. Within this subset, three species hold the dire designation of ‘Critically Endangered,’ while five others teeter on the edge as ‘Endangered,’ and 17 are deemed ‘Vulnerable.’ Additionally, 11 of these remarkable avian treasures are categorized as ‘Near Threatened’ on the IUCN Red List.
This comprehensive publication extends beyond mere statistics, offering a wealth of information that includes the etymology, or the meanings of scientific names, and their historical significance. Moreover, it provides invaluable insights into each species, including distinctions between subspecies, unique traits, preferred habitats, breeding habits, and dietary preferences, further deepening our understanding of the rich tapestry of endemic birds of India.