NEWS – First-Ever Grassland Bird Census Conducted in Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve

HIGHLIGHTS

• Census Period: 18 March – 25 May 2025
• Survey Area: 185 grassland sites across Kaziranga
• Species Recorded: 43 grassland-obligate bird species
  • Includes 1 Critically Endangered, 2 Endangered, and 6 Vulnerable species (IUCN Red List) (Source: The Indian Express)
• Focal Species: Bengal Florican, Finn’s Weaver, Swamp Grass Babbler, Black‑breasted Parrotbill, Marsh Babbler, Jerdon’s Babbler, Slender‑billed Babbler, Bristled Grassbird, Indian Grassbird, Swamp Francolin
• Major Discovery: A breeding colony of the Endangered Finn’s Weaver with approximately 85 nests—a strong indicator of healthy grassland habitat (Source: The Indian Express)

Methodology & Innovation

• Passive Acoustic Monitoring: Audio recorders were installed in tall trees during the breeding season to capture vocal activity of cryptic, well-camouflaged species
• Tech Integration: Spectrogram analysis and AI-based BirdNET used for precise species identification from bird song recordings

Ecological Significance & Conservation Insights

• Grassland birds act as ecological indicators, similar to a BMI for ecosystems—reflecting habitat quality and overall ecosystem integrity
• Kaziranga’s grassland bird diversity now rivals that of Rajasthan and Gujarat, highlighting its importance beyond flagship species like rhinos and tigers (Source: Drishti IAS)
• Threats Identified:
  • Ecological succession
  • Overgrazing
  • Agricultural encroachment
  • Climate change impacts