Captive-Bred Great Indian Bustards Set for First Wild Release in Rajasthan
· India · Indian Express, Hindustan Times
Conservation of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard will enter a new phase this weekend as two captive-bred male chicks are slated for a pilot wild release in enclosures within the Desert National Park in Jaisalmer. The pilot release marks the official commencement of the rewilding phase of Project GIB, which has been under implementation since 2013 for the long-term recovery of the species. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma are likely to preside over the event, which is expected to be held on October 4. The two male chicks, aged four to six months old, will be radio-tagged to monitor their movement and behaviour after release. The wild population of the species currently hovers around 140 individuals, with the largest group located in Rajasthan alongside small numbers across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.
Why it matters
This pilot release marks a critical milestone for the recovery of one of the world's rarest birds, testing whether captive-bred Great Indian Bustards can successfully survive and adapt in the wild.
Read the original report — Indian Express
Join us on Telegram
Breaking news the moment it lands. At 10,000 members we ship the Android app.