Context:

Researchers have found a great diversity of grassland bird species in a recent survey at the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.

Key Findings:

43 grassland species recorded: The survey documented 43 grassland bird species, including the critically endangered Bengal florican, the endangered Finn's weaver, and the swamp grass babbler.

The study recorded several critically endangered and vulnerable species, including:

·         Bengal florican (Critically Endangered)

·         Finn’s weaver (Endangered)

·         Swamp grass babbler

Also recorded were six vulnerable species, such as:

·         Black-breasted parrotbill

·         Marsh babbler

·         Swamp francolin

·         Jerdon’s babbler

·         Slender-billed babbler

·         Bristled grassbird

Breeding success of Finn's weaver: The survey found that the Finn's weaver, a master nest-builder, is breeding successfully in the park, indicating healthy grassland ecosystems.

Critical habitats identified: The study identified several critical grassland habitats within Kaziranga that support significant populations of threatened and endemic species.

Conservation Significance:

·        Grassland health indicator: The Finn's weaver is a vital indicator of grassland health, and its successful breeding is a positive sign for the park's ecosystem.

·        Comparison with other grasslands: The study's findings can be compared with other grasslands in India, such as those in Gujarat and Rajasthan, to better understand the diversity and conservation status of grassland bird species.

·        Protection of critical habitats: The study's findings highlight the need to protect critical grassland habitats within Kaziranga that support threatened and endemic species.

About Kaziranga national park:

Kaziranga national park, located in Assam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and conservation efforts. It is home to:

• The largest population of Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros
• One of the highest tiger densities in India
• Rare and endangered species like the Eastern Swamp Deer, Wild Water Buffalo, and Finn’s Weaver

Its unique location in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River creates a rich mix of grasslands, wetlands, and forests, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna.

History:

• 1905: Declared a Reserve Forest to protect rhinoceroses (influenced by Mary Curzon)
• 1950: Upgraded to a Wildlife Sanctuary
• 1974: Declared a National Park
• 1985: Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• 2006: Became a Tiger Reserve following a decline in tiger numbers

This timeline reflects Kaziranga’s growing recognition as a vital ecological zone.

Kaziranga features a variety of ecosystems:

• Tropical Semi-Evergreen and Deciduous Forests with trees like Bombax ceiba and Ficus species
• Alluvial Grasslands, rich in tall grasses such as Saccharum and Phragmites, essential for herbivores
• Wetlands, replenished by annual flooding, support aquatic birds and migratory species

Conclusion:

The Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve's remarkable diversity of grassland bird species is a testament to the park's conservation efforts and the importance of protecting these critical ecosystems.