The ongoing buzz in the news is about the flame-throated bulbul, also known as Rubigula. This vibrant bird, which is the state bird of Goa, has been selected as the mascot for the 36th National Games. The games are scheduled to take place from October 20 to November 4, 2020. The flame-throated bulbul was a particularly fitting choice given the host state, not to mention the bird’s unique characteristics and significance to the region.
The Flame-Throated Bulbul: A Detailed Look
The flame-throated bulbul is endemic to southern peninsular India. It has a local presence in several states such as southern Andhra Pradesh, eastern Karnataka, Goa, Orissa, eastern Kerala and northern Tamil Nadu. This widespread yet local distribution gives the bird a unique standing in the region’s biodiversity.
This vibrant bird earns its name from its vivid red throat, a feature that stands out against its otherwise dull plumage. It prefers habitats like rocky, scrub-covered hills, predominantly in the Eastern Ghats and central peninsular India, with some sightings in the Western Ghats as well.
Conservation Status of the Flame-Throated Bulbul
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the flame-throated bulbul is classified under the category of ‘Least Concern’. This status is assigned to species that are widespread and abundant, and it signifies that they are not currently facing a significant risk of extinction.
In India, the flame-throated bulbul enjoys protection under the country’s Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972, where it is listed as a Schedule – IV bird. This legal provision contributes to the safeguarding of this species and helps ensure its continued survival.
Understanding the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 is a key piece of legislation that governs wildlife conservation and the protection of plants in India. Birds and animals are listed under various schedules of the Act, each offering a different degree of protection.
Schedule I and part II of Schedule II provide the highest level of protection. Offences related to these species attract the most severe penalties under the law. Meanwhile, species listed under Schedule III and Schedule IV also enjoy protection, but the penalties for related offences are relatively lower.
Schedule V consists of animals which may be legally hunted, while Schedule VI includes endemic plants that are prohibited from cultivation and planting. The flame-throated bulbul’s listing under Schedule IV grants it a significant degree of protection, although this comes with less severe penalties for offences compared to species listed under Schedules I and II.
The 36th National Games: An Overview
The 36th National Games, slated to run from October 20 to November 4, 2020, represents a major event in India’s sporting calendar. The decision to select the flame-throated bulbul as the mascot for these games highlights the vibrant biodiversity of the host state Goa and stands as a testament to the country’s rich natural heritage.
Drawing athletes from across the country, the National Games showcase the diverse talents and skills of Indian sportspersons. The event also offers an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and conservation, something that the selection of the flame-throated bulbul as the event’s mascot helps achieve.