Why in News?
The Bengal Florican (or Bengal Bustard) is in the news because of a critical April 2026 report by Down To Earth and the Assam Forest Department, which warns that fewer than 1,000 individuals remain worldwide.
Key Featutres
- Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered since 2007.
- Wildlife Protection Act (India): Schedule I (highest protection).
- CMS: Listed in Appendix I of the UN Convention on Migratory Species.
- Population:
- Global: Estimated between 350–1,500 individuals.
- India: Holds ~85% of the global population, mainly in Assam (Manas, Kaziranga, Orang) and Uttar Pradesh (Dudhwa).
- Unique Characteristics:
- Grassland Indicator: Its presence reflects a healthy, functioning grassland ecosystem.
- "Lekking" Behaviour: Males perform spectacular aerial displays (vertical leaps and wing flaps) to attract females during the breeding season (March–August).
- Sexual Dimorphism: Males are striking black with white wing patches; females are camouflaged buff-brown.
- Major Threats:
- Habitat Loss: Conversion of grasslands for intensive agriculture (especially dry-season rice).
- Infrastructure: Collision with high-tension power lines is a leading cause of mortality.
- Invasive Species: Woody plants and non-native grasses are choking out the open landscapes they require.
Recent Developments
- Manas Census (2025): A synchronized survey in Manas National Park recorded 38 displaying males, confirming the park as a global stronghold for the species.
- Poaching Incident (Dec 2025): Outrage was triggered in Assam after social media posts showed a poached Bengal Florican being consumed, leading to calls for stricter surveillance.
- Supreme Court Ruling: In ongoing cases (e.g., M.K. Ranjitsinh v. Union of India), the Court is balancing green energy (solar/wind) with bird safety, pushing for underground power lines in priority habitats.
- Community Conservation: Grassroots efforts in Kokilabari (Assam) and by the Idu Mishmi (Arunachal Pradesh) have been praised for reducing egg collection and hunting.
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