Analysis:
- Census Overview:
- The first-ever grassland bird census was conducted in Kaziranga National Park, Assam, recording 43 grassland bird species.
- Grassland birds are considered indicators of ecosystem health, akin to BMI for humans, reflecting habitat quality and biodiversity.
- Key Species and Conservation Status:
- The census included globally threatened and endemic species, relevant from a UPSC environment perspective.
- Such species highlight the ecological importance of grassland habitats within protected areas.
- Importance of Grasslands:
- Grasslands support a unique assemblage of flora and fauna distinct from forested areas.
- They provide habitat for breeding, foraging, and migration of birds and other wildlife.
- Maintaining grasslands is crucial for tiger prey availability, indirectly supporting tiger populations in the park.
- Tiger Population in Kaziranga:
- Recent reports indicate stable tiger populations in the reserve, benefiting from healthy grassland ecosystems that support prey species.
- Conservation of grasslands is therefore integral to broader tiger conservation strategies.
- Policy and UPSC Relevance:
- Grassland bird census data can inform habitat management plans, conservation prioritization, and policy decisions.
- UPSC relevance includes biodiversity indicators, IUCN status, protected area management, and species-specific conservation strategies.
- Location: Kaziranga National Park, Assam
- Total Grassland Bird Species Recorded: 43
- Ecosystem Type: Grassland within a protected area
- Tiger Population Status: Stable, supported by prey availability