The State of India’s Birds (SoIB) 2023, is a first-of-its-kind collaborative study by 13 governmental and non-governmental organisations such as the Bombay Natural History Society, Wildlife Institute of India, and Zoological Survey of India. The study examines the conservation status of various bird species in the country. Despite seeing an increase in a few bird species, the report highlights a considerable decrease in numerous bird species.
Methodologies Used in the Report
The report analyses data collected from around 30,000 birdwatchers and relies on three primary indices to assess bird populations: Long-term trend (change over 30 years), Current annual trend (change over the last seven years), and Distribution range size within India. Out of the 942 bird species assessed, several couldn’t have their current or long-term trends accurately established due to lack of data.
Key Highlights of the Report
The identified long-term trends for 338 species reveal that 60% have seen a decline, 29% are stable, and 11% have increased. Among the species with current annual trends, 39% are declining, while 53% are stable. Specialist bird species that are dependent on narrow habitats like wetlands, rainforests, and grasslands have faced rapid declines, indicating the need to conserve natural forest habitats. Migratory birds, especially those travelling long distances, have also experienced significant declines.
Dietary requirements of birds have also impacted abundance trends, with birds that feed on vertebrates and carrion facing the most decline. Endemic species unique to the Western Ghats and Sri Lanka biodiversity hotspot, and waterbirds have also seen rapid declines.
Major Threats
The report outlined multiple major threats to bird species, including forest degradation, urbanization, and energy infrastructure. Environmental pollutants, such as veterinary drugs like nimesulide, continue to threaten vulture populations in India. Climate change impacts on migratory species, avian diseases, and illegal hunting and trade are among other significant threats.
Report Recommendations
The SoIB 2023 recommends conserving specific groups of birds and maintaining and protecting ecosystems like grasslands. It also emphasizes the importance of systematic monitoring of bird populations, habitat preservation, addressing pollution, and understanding the dietary requirements of birds.
Ways to Ensure a Viable Bird Population
The report suggests several strategies for sustaining bird populations, including habitat conservation and restoration, establishing protected areas and reserves, reducing pollution, mitigating climate change, and limiting human disturbances.
Measures Taken to Safeguard Bird Species
India has initiated numerous measures to conserve bird species, such as the National Action Plan for Conservation of Migratory Birds (2018-2023), transboundary protected areas for species like the Great Indian Bustard, and the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Furthermore, steps have been taken to conserve vultures like banning the veterinary use of diclofenac and establishing vulture breeding centres.
