A recent bird survey at Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand, India, identified 275 bird species, including two critically endangered species (white-rumped vulture and red-headed vulture), two endangered species (Pallas’s fish-eagle, Egyptian vulture), and four vulnerable species (great hornbill, great slaty woodpecker, grey-crowned prinia, river tern). The reserve, encompassing the Corbett National Park and Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary, features diverse flora and fauna. The survey underscores the importance of conservation efforts to protect these species and their habitats in the reserve.
Prelims pointer
Corbett Tiger Reserve: Located in Uttarakhand’s Nainital district, it encompasses the Corbett National Park and Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary. The reserve is named after renowned conservationist Jim Corbett and is known for its biodiversity and being a habitat for the Bengal tiger.
Critically Endangered Species: Species facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. The white-rumped vulture and red-headed vulture are both critically endangered according to the IUCN list.
Endangered Species: Species at a high risk of extinction in the wild. The Pallas’s fish-eagle and Egyptian vulture are listed as endangered.
Vulnerable Species: Species that are likely to become endangered if factors threatening their survival continue. The great hornbill, great slaty woodpecker, grey-crowned prinia, and river tern fall into this category.
Flora: The diverse plant life within the Corbett Tiger Reserve includes evergreen Sal and associated trees, Sheesham, and Kanju. These trees contribute to the reserve’s rich biodiversity.
Fauna: The reserve supports a variety of animal species, including the iconic Bengal tiger, leopard, elephant, hog deer, spotted deer, and sambar. These animals contribute to the ecosystem’s balance and biodiversity.
