5% Of Birds In India Are Endemic, Reveals Zoological Survey Of India Publication

Relevance: GS3 - Environment and Conservation, Prelims

(Source: The Hindu, 08/07/2023)

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Why in the news?

• Recently, the publication, titled "75 Endemic Birds of India," was released by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI).
• According to a recent release, approximately 5% of bird species discovered in India are endemic and do not exist in any other regions globally.

Key Findings of Endemic Bird Species

• Endemic Bird Diversity in India: India is home to 1,353 bird species, which represents approximately 12.40% of global bird diversity. Out of these 1,353 bird species, 78 (5%) are endemic to the country.
• Species with no record: It was highlighted that three species have not been recorded in the last few decades. They are the:
  • Manipur Bush Quail (Perdicula manipurensis), listed as ‘Endangered’ by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species with its last recorded sighting in 1907;
  • the Himalayan Quail (Ophrysia superciliosa), listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ with its last recorded sighting in 1876; and
  • the Jerdon’s Courser (Rhinoptilus bitorquatus), listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ with its last confirmed sighting in 2009.
• Geographical Distribution: The Western Ghats have the highest number of endemic species (28), followed by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands (25). The Eastern Himalayas, Southern Deccan plateau, and central Indian forest each have a few endemic species.

Bird species only found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

• Nicobar Megapode (Megapodius nicobariensis);
• Nicobar Serpent Eagle (Spilornis klossi);
• Andaman Crake (Rallina canningi);
• Andaman Barn Owl (Tyto deroepstorffi)

Significance of India's Endemic Bird Species

• Biodiversity Conservation: Endemic bird species are a unique and irreplaceable part of a country's biodiversity. They represent the result of millions of years of evolution in a specific geographic area.
• Indigenous Cultural Significance: Many of India's endemic bird species are often featured in folklore, myths, and traditional practices. These species contribute to the identity and heritage of different regions within India.
• Ecological Balance: Endemic species often play specific ecological roles in their native ecosystems. They might have evolved to fill niches that are not occupied by other species, contributing to the overall balance of the ecosystem.
• Tourism and Recreation: Birdwatching and ecotourism have become popular activities in India and around the world. Many bird enthusiasts travel to specific regions to observe and photograph endemic species.
• Education and Awareness: Endemic species can serve as ambassadors for broader conservation efforts. Their uniqueness can capture people's attention and raise awareness about the importance of protecting natural habitats and biodiversity.

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FAQs

MCQ

Question: In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply? (UPSC 2017)

(a) It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger.

(b) It no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are kept under captive protection, and now it is impossible to prevent its extinction.

(c) It is endemic to a particular region of India.

(d) Both (b) and (c) stated above are correct in this context.