Bird conservation is a high-priority area that intersects Biology, Environment, and International Relations. Birds are sensitive to ecological changes, making their conservation a benchmark for broader environmental health.
Major Threats to Avian Biodiversity
Before discussing management, it is essential to identify the primary drivers of avian decline:
- Habitat Destruction: Conversion of grasslands (Great Indian Bustard), wetlands (Sarus Crane), and primary forests (Hornbills) for agriculture and infrastructure.
- Chemical Pollution: Bioaccumulation of pesticides (DDT) and veterinary drugs (Diclofenac).
- Linear Infrastructure: Collision with high-tension power lines and wind turbines, particularly affecting large, low-maneuverability birds.
- Invasive Species: Feral cats, dogs, and invasive plants (like Lantana) that alter nesting habitats or prey on eggs.
International Conservation Frameworks
India is a signatory to several international treaties that dictate the management of avian species.
1. Convention on Migratory Species (CMS/Bonn Convention)
As a party to the CMS, India focuses on the Central Asian Flyway (CAF). The CMS provides a legal framework for the conservation of migratory species throughout their range.
- Raptor MoU: An agreement under CMS specifically for the conservation of migratory birds of prey in Africa and Eurasia, which India has signed.
2. Ramsar Convention on Wetlands
Many bird species are “waterbirds.” Ramsar sites are designated based on several criteria, including whether a site supports 20,000 or more waterbirds or 1% of the individuals in a population of one species.
3. CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)
Regulates the international trade of birds (like Parrots and Raptors) to ensure that trade does not threaten their survival in the wild.
National Conservation Initiatives in India
India’s domestic policy is governed primarily by the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, where endangered birds are listed under Schedule I for maximum protection.
1. Vulture Conservation Actions
Following the 99% decline in vulture populations due to Diclofenac poisoning, the government took several steps:
- Diclofenac Ban: Banned for veterinary use in 2006.
- Vulture Conservation Breeding Centres (VCBC): Established in Pinjore (Haryana), Rajabhatkhawa (West Bengal), and other locations to breed Gyps vultures in captivity for reintroduction.
- Vulture Safe Zones (VSZ): Identifying areas where no diclofenac is found in carcasses within a 100km radius.
2. Project Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
The GIB is “Critically Endangered” and the state bird of Rajasthan.
- Habitat Protection: Focused on the Desert National Park (Rajasthan) and Kutch Bustard Sanctuary (Gujarat).
- Firefly Bird Diverters: Installing glowing flaps on power lines to make them visible to GIBs and prevent collisions.
3. Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH)
A centrally sponsored scheme that provides financial assistance to states for the conservation of various birds and their habitats outside protected areas.
Important Conservation Organizations
| Organization | Role/Contribution |
| BirdLife International | Identifies Important Bird Areas (IBAs) globally. |
| Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) | India’s premier NGO for avian research; partner of BirdLife International. |
| Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) | Based in Coimbatore; focuses on ornithology and natural history research. |
| Wetlands International | Works on the conservation of wetlands and migratory waterbirds. |
Conservation Status of Key Indian Birds
| Common Name | IUCN Status | Primary Habitat | Key Threat |
| Great Indian Bustard | Critically Endangered | Dry Grasslands | Power lines/Habitat loss |
| Siberian Crane | Critically Endangered | Wetlands | Hunting/Habitat loss |
| White-rumped Vulture | Critically Endangered | Plains/Forests | Diclofenac |
| Bengal Florican | Critically Endangered | Terai Grasslands | Overgrazing/Agriculture |
| Forest Owlet | Endangered | Deciduous Forests | Habitat loss |
In-situ and Ex-situ Conservation Strategies
- In-situ (On-site): Protection through National Parks, Sanctuaries, and Conservation Reserves (e.g., Keoladeo National Park for waterfowl).
- Ex-situ (Off-site): Captive breeding programs (e.g., for Vultures and the Himalayan Monal) and seed/gene banks for avian DNA.
Trivia and Facts for Prelims
- Asian Waterbird Census (AWC): An annual voluntary exercise conducted across Asia and Australasia to monitor the status of waterbirds and wetlands.
- Birding Hotspots: India has over 460 Important Bird Areas (IBAs).
- Bio-fencing: Using specific bird-friendly flora to create natural boundaries and food sources for avian populations in urban and agricultural landscapes.