Jun 13, 2024
SIMPLIFIER: GREATER ADJUTANT STORKS IN ASSAM
Q: What is the greater adjutant stork?
A: The greater adjutant stork is one of the most endangered bird species, primarily found in the Brahmaputra valley of Assam, India. These birds are known for their large size, some reaching almost five feet in height.
Q: Where are greater adjutant storks found in Assam?
A: They are mostly found in the districts of Guwahati, Morigaon, and Nagaon. Historically, Guwahati had the largest concentration of these storks in the country.
Q: Why are the greater adjutant storks endangered?
A: The primary reasons are habitat loss due to rapid urbanization, destruction of wetlands, overfishing, and drainage projects. These factors have significantly reduced their natural habitats and food sources.
Q: What role do wetlands play in the survival of these storks?
A: Wetlands provide essential resources such as food, water, and shelter. They are crucial for foraging, especially during the breeding season from October to February when live prey like fish, frogs, and reptiles are abundant.
Q: Where are the storks currently found in Guwahati?
A: Due to habitat loss, they are now mostly seen at a garbage dumping site near the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a Ramsar site.
Q: How do urbanization and habitat destruction affect the storks?
A: Urbanization leads to the conversion of wetlands into buildings, reducing the available habitat. Additionally, many roosting trees on private land are being cut down, further diminishing their nesting and resting sites.
Q: What legal protections are in place for the greater adjutant stork?
A: The species has received legal protection in India. However, enforcement and public awareness are still lacking, and many people drive these birds away due to their feeding habits and the odor of their droppings.
Q: Can the greater adjutant stork adapt to urban environments?
A: While they forage in urban waste disposal sites, this is not ideal and poses health risks. Their long-term survival depends on the preservation and restoration of their natural habitats.
Q: What can be done to help conserve the greater adjutant stork?
A: Conservation efforts should focus on protecting and restoring wetlands, enforcing legal protections, raising public awareness, and involving local communities in conservation activities.
Q: Why is the greater adjutant stork important?
A: As a part of the ecosystem, they play a role in maintaining biodiversity. Their presence indicates the health of wetland ecosystems, which are crucial for various forms of wildlife.
SRIRAM’s
