Prelims: Current events of national importance | Environment & Biodiversity
Why in News?
A study by the Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation has identified Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary in Jamnagar district, Gujarat, as a major breeding stronghold for the Black-necked Stork.
Key Highlights of the Study
- 100% Fledging Success - All four monitored active nests successfully raised two chicks each, resulting in eight new juveniles with zero recorded chick mortality, predation, or nest abandonment.
- Peak Population - The sanctuary supported a peak seasonal population of 21 to 23 Black-necked Storks, including breeding pairs, fledglings, and five non-breeding adults.
- Adaptation to Invasive Flora- All four nests were constructed at heights of 3 to 4.5 metres on Neltuma juliflora (formerly Prosopis juliflora, locally known as gando baval).
- This demonstrates the species' structural adaptability to utilize invasive trees for nesting where native species like acacias or figs are limited.
- Optimal Feeding Hydrology- Nesting success was driven by adjacent shallow, semi-perennial wetlands with water depths between 0.3 and 0.7 metres.
- It provides an abundant supply of fish, amphibians, crustaceans, and aquatic invertebrates.
- Coordinated Biparental Care- Adults attended nests for an average of 62 minutes per visit, with parents swapping nest duty during foraging departures in 94% of observed instances.
About the Black-Necked Stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus)
- Taxonomy - A large wading bird belonging to the stork family Ciconiidae.
- Recognized by its contrasting black-and-white body, iridescent blue-green neck, long bright red legs, and a heavy black bill.
- Habitat - Native to South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australia, preferring open freshwater marshes, shallow river courses, and semi-perennial wetlands.
- Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List- Near Threatened (Globally).
- Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972- Protected under Schedule II (as amended in 2022).
About Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary
- Location - Situated in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat, along the coast of the Gulf of Kutch.
- Unique Ecosystem- Defined by a unique eco-tone featuring both freshwater wetlands and saline/brackish habitats.
- Created by a man-made bund built to prevent seawater ingress into agricultural land.
- Ramsar Site- Designated as a Ramsar Site (Wetland of International Importance) in 2022.
- Migratory Corridor - Serves as a vital wintering and staging ground along the Central Asian Flyway (CAF) for thousands of migratory and resident waterbirds.
Reference
Times of India | Khijadiya, stronghold for black-necked stork breeding
