Greater Adjutant Stork | 11 Jun 2024

Source: TH

Why in News?

The  Greater Adjutant Stork, locally known as ‘Garuda’ once commonly found in southern Asia and mainland southeast Asia, is now restricted to a small area Assam in India. 

• This large bird is known for its distinct appearance, with a long neck, large bill, and a prominent gular pouch.

What are the Key Facts about Greater Adjutant Stork?

• Scientific Name: Leptoptilos dubius
• Genus: It is a member of the stork family, Ciconiidae. There are about 20 species in the family. They are long-necked large birds.
• Habitat: There are only 3 known breeding grounds, one in Cambodia and two in India (Assam and Bihar).
  • In India, they are found with the largest colony located in Assam and a smaller one around Bhagalpur.
  • In Assam, their habitat is primarily in the Brahmaputra valley, specifically in the districts of Guwahati, Morigaon, and Nagaon.
• Protection Status:
  • IUCN Red List: Endangered

  • Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule IV

• Diet: 
  • Principally carnivorous, feeding on fish, frogs, snakes, other reptiles, eels, birds, offal and carrion. 
  • It shares the habit of scavenging with vultures.
• Significance:

  • Religious Icon:

    • They are considered the mount of Vishnu, one of Hinduism’s prime deities.
    • Some worship the bird and call it “Garuda Maharaj” (Lord Garuda) or “Guru Garuda” (Great Teacher Garuda).
  • Helpful for Farmers:
    • They help farmers by killing rats and other farm pests.

What are the Threats and Conservation Efforts Related to Greater Adjutant Storks?

• Threats:

  • Habitat Loss: Urbanization is destroying wetlands, which are essential for these storks to forage for food. Many are now forced to rely on garbage dumps, which is not a healthy long-term solution.

    • Eg: Garbage dumping site near the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary (Ramsar site).
  • Encroachment and drainage projects are destroying crucial wetland ecosystems.
    • For example, In Guwahati, private landowners are cutting down roosting trees (which they need for nesting), further squeezing their habitat.
  • Seasonal Challenges: The breeding season (October-February) coincides with abundant fish and prey availability in wetlands.
    • During the non-breeding season, these storks rely on urban waste disposal sites for food.
  • Human Disturbance: Local communities often drive the birds away due to the strong odor of their droppings and the presence of rotting meat brought to feed their hatchlings.

• Conservation Efforts:

  • Working with the Locals: In Assam, local communities play a significant role in the conservation of Hargila. Conservationists have engaged villagers, particularly women, in protecting nesting sites and raising awareness about the importance of these birds.

  • Protection of Nesting Sites: Efforts have been made to protect and restore nesting sites by planting trees and safeguarding existing ones where the storks nest. Community-based organizations are working to monitor and protect these sites from disturbances.

  • Awareness Campaigns: Educational programs and awareness campaigns are being conducted to change public perception and encourage coexistence with these storks.