LOST AND FOUND

THE FOREST OWLET

Credit: Nikhil Devasar

When the eminent American ornithologist, Pamela Rasmussen along with David Abott and Ben King of the American Museum of Natural History led an expedition into the foothills of the Satpura Range to gather evidence on the existence of an indigenous owl species in the late 1990s, history was not on their side. The bird they wanted to find and document was discovered in December 1872 and was presumed to be extinct within 12 years with a total of seven collected specimens of which, ironically, none were in India. Earlier, India’s greatest avian scientist, Dr Salim Ali and American ornithologist S Dillon Ripley had failed to rediscover the species in spite of scanning the areas from where the specimens were allegedly collected by British soldier and bird lover, Richard Meinertzhagen. Their efforts even included putting up white and black posters of the bird in the areas adjoining the Melghat Tiger Reserve in a bid to involve the locals in the search operations. Even S A Hussain’s efforts to find the bird in the forests of Mandvi in Gujarat in 1976 proved futile.

The trio began their search in south-eastern Madhya Pradesh (Gomardh wildlife sanctuary and Churabathi), followed by Paikmal forests in Orissa but found no trace of the endemic Owl species. Another attempt in Shahada Forest Division based on the accounts of James Davidson met no success initially as much of the forest cover of the region had fallen prey to India’s rapid economic development After scanning through the forests of Western Maharashtra for ten days, they spotted and filmed the elusive bird on 25^th November 1997 – a hundred and thirteen years since it had been last sighted. The re-discovery of this avian species, by a group of American scientists was cheered by wildlife enthusiast and bird lovers across the globe and added another dimension to the diverse ecology of India.

The Forest Owlet is one of the sixty odd species of the order Strigiformes which are found in India. Also known as the Forest Spotted Owlet and Indian Little Owlet, this avian belongs to the family Striginae (Typical Owls) which is characterized by a large circular head, short tail, cryptic plumage and round facial disc around the eyes. Unlike their cousins, the members of the Tytonidae family are identified by heart-shaped facial disc, formed by stiff feathers which serve to amplify and locate the source of sounds while hunting. Besides, the two families can be differentiated on the basis of the structural details regarding the sternum and talon.

The Forest owlet was discovered by F. R. Blewitt in Busnah-Phuljan region of Eastern Madhya Pradesh in 1872 and was christened Athena blewitti in his honor. He sent the specimen that he had collected to A O Hume, the founder of the Indian National Congress who described it in his book, Stray Feathers. A few more specimens were collected by Valentine Ball and James Davidson prior to 1884 when the beautiful bird strangely disappeared. Colonel Richard Meinertzhagen claimed to have collected a specimen in Mandvi, Gujarat, thereby extending the range of the species. In fact several attempts to track the bird in the twentieth century were based largely on Richard’s account.

However, when researching for her book, Birds of South Asia, Pamela Rasmussen along with Nigel Collar found out that Colonel Meinertzhagen had committed a fraud, decades ago that involved stealing of faunal specimens from museums, modifying accompanying data and presenting them as if he had actually collected them. They found out that Richard’s specimen of the Owlet was actually the last of the five specimens collected by James Davidson and had been relabeled with false data. This had actual hindered the study of these birds of prey in the last century. Armed with this piece of vital information, Pamela decided to locate the Owlet in the jungles of Central India from where earlier specimens were reported and viola, a treasure that had been lost by a man’s greed was traced back and rediscovered, much to the delight of nature lovers everywhere.

Credit: Tarique Sani

With the rediscovery of the enigmatic bird, several expeditions were carried out by individual bird enthusiasts as well as organizations, both Indian and international to gather more data on the Forest owlet’s present status and distribution, to study its behavioral and breeding patterns, to find the reasons that have made them rare and the measures that need to be taken to improve their numbers. It is largely due to the time, money and hard work invested by all parties involved in these surveys that our understanding of the species has compounded considerably, thereby boosting steps to conserve these owlets in the wild.

In their work entitled, The rediscovery of the Forest owlet Athene (Heteroglaux) blewitti (FORKTAIL 14 (1998): 53-55), Rasmussen and King have mentioned the characteristics of the Forest owlet and the factors that distinguish it from its other relatives, besides describing their historic journey into the jungles of central India in Nov 1997. The elusive Forest owlet (23 cm) is slighter taller than the more common Spotted owlet (21 cm), with which it is often confused. It has a rather large skull, marked with small white spots on the forehead, yellow eyes, a pale facial disc and a collar of white spots on the hind neck. While the upper parts including the head, nape and scapular region are dark brown in color, the under parts are lighter whereas the tail and the wings are banded with white trailing edges, with the primaries being rather distinct from the rest of the wings. It is characterized by a dark brown bar across the throat, mainly visible when the bird is in flight.

Kishore Rithe who has extensively traveled across the Satpura ranges on the trail of the species, has noted that each individual has distinct markings, especially on the breasts. The females are slightly larger than the males, perch on higher branches and have more distinct markings.

The 'Dondar Dooda', as it is known to tribals in Melghat, was one of the few Indian bird species whose vocalization was never recorded. However, significant breakthrough was achieved by Rasmussen and Farah Ishtiaq of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) in this regard when they managed to identify and record different voices given by the enigmatic bird as well as its behavior, published as a document, Vocalization and behavior of the Forest owlet Athene (Heteroglaux) blewitti (FORKTAIL 15 (1999): 61-65). A hissing call (“shreee” or “kheek”) is short and cannot be heard over long distances, lasting for 2-3 seconds on an average. The song consists of short, loud and well spaded disyllabic notes and is clearly distinct from those of other common owl species found alongside the Forest owlet. A territorial call (“kwaak…kwaak”) is given by the paired birds, back and forth while within their boundaries and during any intrusion. Other voices given include an alarm call (“chirrur…chirrur, chirr…chirr”), a begging call (“kee…k, kee…k”) made when the female or the young seek food and a contact call (“kee yah, kee…yah”) given by the female when the male gets food to her at the nest.

They perch on trees and scan the jungle below for its prey which includes lizards, rodents, birds, frogs and invertebrates like caterpillars, grass hoppers, stick insects etc. While the feeding perches are closer to the ground and in small trees, the resting and calling perches are seen close to the top of taller trees, which provides a better view of the forest below and keeps them safe from danger. While resting, it is observed to sit on one foot for long periods, keeping either one or both eyes closed for short duration. The preening bouts during resting are short and include face-scratching, wing-stretching, toe-cleaning, beak-wiping against its perch and preening various parts of its plumage. The duo observed that the flights between trees were short, direct and agile.

Credit: Copper Wiki

The peak breeding season lasts from January to February and the females give birth during spring when the prey is in plenty. During nesting, the male does the hunting and gets food for the female and the young. The fledge after about a month but are dependent on their parents for another 40-45 days. Filial cannibalism by males has been observed by Ishtiaq and Rahmani.

In 2005, the Ministry of Environment & Forests (Govt. of India), in association with several state forest departments and other ornithological institutes launched a major survey in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Orissa and Gujarat to identify the habitat of the Forest owlet and to estimate their numbers in the wild. Modern techniques like call-playback and visual scanning were used during the census that went on up to mid 2007. The call-playback technique involves broadcasting of the pre recorded calls of a territorial bird species so as to elicit a response from the territorial holder which perceives the recorded call as that of a challenger. A total of 24 birds, including 19 adults and 5 juveniles were found in Burhanpur (Khaknar and Piplod Range) and Khandwa Forest Divisions (East Kalibhit Range) in MP. As many as 20 individuals, 18 adults and 2 juveniles were spotted at the Melghat Tiger Reserve and Yawal Wildlife Sanctuary in Northern Maharashtra. Sadly, no sightings were recorded from the other three states during this survey. All recordings were made at an elevation of 150 m to 500 m and the preferred habitat seems to be dry open teak forests, contrary to popular misconception that the bird prefers living at higher altitudes.  

All the sites were noted to be under moderate to severe human pressure, a fact that could be detrimental to the survival of these rare birds. Cattle grazing, wood cutting, human encroachment and vehicular traffic within its habitat was observed in the course of the survey. Illegal logging has reduced nesting cavities; thereby increasing competition amongst various owl species to occupy the existing ones during the breeding season. Rithe mentions that the proposed Upper Tapi Irrigation Project may end up submerging a large portion of its severely fragmented and limited habitat. Besides, it is also hunted by several native raptors and tribals too. Like other owl species in India, it may also be adversely affected by the indiscriminate use of pesticides.

In fact, the BNHS had sent a proposal to the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Maharashtra to declare the forest owlet as the state bird, replacing the Yellow-footed Green pigeon (Hariyal). Scholars at the BNHS felt that such a move could increase awareness about the creature and could increase efforts towards the conservation of the endangered bird. While no one suspected their intentions, a large number of wildlife experts opposed such a move. They pointed out that the bird was found only in a small pocket of the state and was unknown to most Maharashtrians. Also, such a move could increase number of visitors to Melghat Tiger Reserve, adversely affecting its fragile ecology.

Credit: Jayesh K Joshi

Considering the fact that it has been placed in the Critically Endangered category of the IUCN Red List, it is imperative that surveys to gather vital data about this enigmatic owl species are continued so as to help us to formulate an action plan to protect this bird from extinction and to revive its number. It is extremely important to focus on the forests of Central India, so as to clearly identify the habitat and estimate numbers of the Forest owlet with high amount of certainty. The relocation of tribals in the vicinity of its habitat, as in some parts of the Melghat reserve can be highly beneficial. Cattle grazing needs to be regulated and felling of trees has to be prevented at all costs. Besides, a thorough investigation needs to be done into claims that pesticides have led to a steady decline in the population of several species of owls in India, as in case of vultures.  

Off late, studies have suggested that there may be at least 100 Forest owlets within the Melghat Tiger Reserve, which is now being considered to be the species stronghold. While other Tiger Reserves in the country are constantly in the limelight for all the wrong reasons, the forests of Melghat are thriving, along with the flora and fauna that inhabits it, including the owlet. It is our good fortune that Mother Nature has given us a second chance with the them and it is our solemn duty to protect and preserve this treasure. With sheer determination and participation, both from the government and the general public, it is indeed possible to give this magnificent bird an opportunity to avoid doom and give our future generations a chance to witness this gem of nature.

SOURCES

(1) FORKTAIL 14 (1998): 53-55 - The rediscovery of the Forest Owlet Athene (Heteroglaux) blewitti (Link)
Authors: Ben F. King and Pamela C. Rasmussen

(2) FORKTAIL 15 (1998): 61-65 - Vocalization and behaviour of the Forest Owlet Athene (Heteroglaux) blewittti (Link)
Authors: Pamela C. Rasmussen and Farah Ishtiaq

(3) FORKTAIL 16 (2000): 172-173 - Cronism in the Forest Owlet Athene (Heteroglaux) blewitti (Link)
Authors: Farah Ishtiaq and Asad R. Rahmani

(4) FORKTAIL 16 (2000): 125-130 - Further information on the status and distribution of the Forest Owlet Athene (Heteroglaux) blewitti (Link)
Authors: Farah Ishtiaq and Asad R. Rahmani

(5) A Survey of Critically Endangered Forest Owlet (Heteroglaux blewitti) in Central India (Link)

(6) Saving the Forest Owlet - Kishor Rithe (Link)

(7) Wikipedia.org - Forest Owlet (Link)

(8) Birdlife.com - Forest Owlet Heteroglaux blewetti (Link)

(9) Times of India - Experts oppose proposal to declare Forest Owlet as state bird (Link)

IMAGES

(1) Credit: Nikhil Devasar 

Original - Kolkata Birds: Melghat Tiger Reserve, 2009 (Link)

(2) Credit: Tarique Sani

Original - Flickr: The critically endangered Forest Owlet Heteroglaux blewitti [Explored] (Link)

(3) Credit: Copper Wiki

Original - Copper Wiki (Link)

(4) Credit: Dr Jayesh K Joshi

Original - EzineMark (Link)

THE CHILDREN OF THE GANGA

THE GANGES RIVER DOLPHIN

Ever since the dawn of civilization in the Indian Sub-continent, the Ganga has played a pivotal role in the political, religious, cultural and economic matters concerning the people of the region. Apart from being a perennial source of water, the fertile alluvium brought down by this mighty river has made the North Indian plain, one of the most productive, prosperous and populous region of the world. Since time immemorial, the wealth and grandeur of cites of the Ganga valley have lured people from different parts of the world towards India. In fact the Ganga plain is the crucible from which the ‘Great Civilization of India’, based on the virtues of equality, love and freedom came into existence. Besides being the holiest river in Hinduism, the Ganga, India’s National River finds a mention in all the ancient Vedic texts and continues to be our symbol all over the world.

While the various aspects of the Ganga and its relevance in the Story of India are well documented, the fact most often overlooked about the river is the rich bio-diversity that it supports in its 2500 km long journey that encompasses several different vegetative patterns including the confiners in the higher altitudes of the Himalayas to the Sundri trees of the Sunderban delta region. Perhaps, the most well-known of all faunal species that inhabits it, is our National Aquatic animal – The Ganga River dolphin.

Unlike their oceanic cousins who are occasionally sighted in fresh waters near the mouth of rivers, the river dolphins of the world, classed in the Platanistoidea super family of cetaceans reside in fresh water rivers and estuaries. The two types of dolphins differ somewhat in physical appearance with river dolphins having a much larger snout of about 30 centimeters. On the contrary, they have smaller eyes, and their vision is poorly developed because they live in dark, muddy water. This environment also makes river dolphins less active than marine dolphins.

Of the four species of the river dolphins the largest is the Boto or The Amazon River dolphin endemic to the Orinoco, Amazon and Araguaia/Tocantins River systems of South America. The other fresh water dolphin found in this continent is the La Plata or Franciscana dolphin, which is also found in the ocean and saltwater estuaries. The third member is the Baiji or Chinese River dolphin that once inhabited the Yangtze River, but fell prey to China’s rapid industrialization and was declared “functionally extinct” in December 2006. And lastly, the South Asian River dolphins, the two sub-species of freshwater dolphins found in two great rivers of the Sub-continent, the Ganga and the Sindhu. The Ganges River dolphin or the Ganges Susu is primarily found in the Ganges and Brahmaputra Rivers and their tributaries in India, Bangladesh and Nepal, while the Indus River dolphin or Bhulan is found in the Indus River in Pakistan and its Beas and Sutlej tributaries. From the 1970s until 1998, they were regarded as separate species; however, in 1998, their classification was changed from two separate species to subspecies of a single species.

Credit: Francois Xavier / WWF India

Having a fairly thick, yet sturdy body with light grey-brown skin, often with a hue of pink, river dolphins of the Ganga, like other species of this kind are characterized by a large snout that thickens towards its end. The teeth are visible in both the upper and lower jaws even when the mouth is closed. The flippers and tail are thin and large in relation to the body size while the dorsal fin is under developed and reduced to a triangular lump. These aquatic mammals display sexual dimorphism with the mature adult females being much larger than the males because the female rostrum continues to grow even after the male rostrum stops growing, eventually reaching approximately 20 centimeters more. Having an average weight of about 150 kilograms, the species have been recorded to live for as many as 28 years in captivity. The males attain sexual maturity at an age of about 10 to 12 years, while the females mature much earlier. After a gestation period that is thought to be approximately 10 months, the dolphins give birth to a single calf, once in 2 to 3 years. The young which are chocolate brown at the time of the birth become grayish brown in adulthood with a smooth and hairless skin. The teeth of the young are almost an inch long, thin and curved; however, as the animals age the teeth undergo considerable changes and in mature adults become square, bony and flat disks. Calves have been observed between January and May and do not appear to stay with the mother for more than a few months.

In fact what sets this creature apart from all others that inhabit the river is the unique manner in which they navigate and catch their prey in the muddy waters of the holy Ganga. These mammals do not have a crystalline eye lens, rendering them effectively blind and earning it the nickname – The Blind River dolphin, although the eyes may still be able to detect the intensity and direction of light. As such, navigation and hunting are carried out using the technique of echolocation – commonly known as the Biosonar, and found in many other animal species like bats, whales, porpoises etc. This technique comes in handy as they live in an underwater habitat that has favourable acoustic characteristics and where vision is extremely limited in range due to absorption and turbidity. The dolphin emits an ultrasonic sound from its snout in the directions of its head, which reaches the prey or any obstacle in the path and is reflected back. The echoes are received using fatty structures around the lower jaw as the primary reception path, from where they are transmitted to the brain. The dolphin then registers this image in its mind and subsequently avoids the obstacles or catches hold of its prey which includes a variety of shrimp and fish, including the carp, catfish, mahseers, gobies and freshwater shark. It does much of its feeding at or near the bottom, swimming on one side, and probing the river bottom with its snout and flipper, which has led to them being referred to as - The Side Swimming dolphins.

The marked seasonal changes in the distribution and density of the Ganges River dolphin over much of its range are due, at least in large part, to fluctuations in water levels. During the dry season from October - April, many dolphins leave the tributaries of the Ganges - Brahmaputra system and congregate in the main channels, only to return to the tributaries the following rainy season. They may become isolated in pools and river branches during the dry season. Reports from the 19th century speak of large schools of dolphins to be seen near most large towns on the Ganga River. However, in more recent times, this dolphin has usually been found to occur in small groups or alone with relatively high densities being recorded at sites near the confluence of two or more rivers, in areas where the current is relatively weak, off the mouths of irrigation canals, and near villages and ferry routes, sharing their habitat with other critically endangered species like gharials, fresh water turtles. In India, their distribution range covers seven states and several rivers – The Upper Ganga River (Uttar Pradesh), Chambal River (Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh), Ghagra and Gandak Rivers (Bihar and Uttar Pradesh), Ganga River (Varanasi to Patna), Sone and Kosi Rivers (Bihar), Brahmaputra River from Sadia (Arunachal Pradesh) to Dhubri (Bangladesh border) and its tributary, Kulsi River.

Once present in tens of thousands of numbers, the Ganges River dolphin has dwindled abysmally to less than 2000 during the last century. Probably the greatest factor that goes against it is the fact that its habitat – The Indo-Gangetic Plain, supports nearly one-tenth of the world human population. Though deliberate killing of this species for meat and oil seem to have declined in most of the areas, the various reasons that have contributed to a steady decline in their numbers are as follows:-

(1) Habitat Fragmentation: The construction of 50 or more dams and barrages within the Ganges River dolphin’s historic range has drastically altered its habitat and fragmented the population. More such structures are planned or are under consideration. Approximately 3500 km of embankments have been constructed along the main channel of the Ganges and its tributaries which interrupts access to spawning habitat for floodplain-dependent fishes and eliminate eddy counter-currents where the dolphins spend much of their time.

(2) River Pollution: Dredging and the removal of stones, sand, and woody debris also compromise the ecological integrity of the riverine environments, especially in small tributaries. Concentrations of toxic chemicals such as organochlorine and butyltin in the tissues of Ganges River dolphins are high enough to cause concern about adverse effects.

(3) Indiscriminate Fishing/Entanglement: Incidental mortality in fishing gear, especially gillnets, is a severe problem for the Ganges River dolphin throughout most of its range. The demand for these products means that there is little incentive for fishermen to reduce the by catch or to release dolphins that are still alive when found in nets.

Credit: Roland Seitre

Placed in Schedule-I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and listed by IUCN as ‘Endangered’, the Ganges River dolphin enjoys high levels of legal protection both nationally and internationally. This species was declared as the National Aquatic Animal of India by a decision taken in the first meeting of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) chaired by Dr. Manmohan Singh on 5th October, 2009. It has been recently found that fish oils can be used in the place of dolphin oil for the preparation of bait. Popularization of fish oil as bait may reduce the poaching of dolphins for its oil.

Yet its numbers continue to decline. The absence of a coordinated conservation plan, lack of awareness and continuing anthropogenic pressure, are posing an incessant threat to the existing dolphin population. In fact several conservation programs have been launched in the Vikramshila Gangetic dolphin Sanctuary, the only protected area for the Ganges dolphin in India, to study these creatures, to understand their behavior and to protect them. These include:-

(1) The Vikramshila Biodiversity Research and Education Centre (VBREC), led by Dr. Sunil Chaudhary, together with the Whale and dolphin Conservation Society (WDCS), the Environmental Biology Laboratory of Patna University, and T.M. Bhagalpur University, has initiated a project to improve the conservation value of Vikramshila Gangetic dolphin Sanctuary.

(2) Aaranyak, a registered NGO working in the North-East has initiated a project entitled “Conservation of Gangetic dolphin in Brahmaputra” in collaboration with the Dibrugarh University to evaluate the conservation status of these mammals throughout the Brahmaputra River System by carrying out research into its population status, distribution, habitat preferences and threats.

(3) WWF India has also started ‘The Ganges River Dolphin Conservation Program’ to build a scientific database of the population status of the species and study the habitat quality of the dolphins' distribution range. A 'River Watch Program' has been initiated to identify hot spots and develop management plans with the help of the Forest Department and create awareness in target areas.

Dolphins are amongst one of the oldest creatures in the world along with some species of turtles, crocodiles and sharks. In Hindu mythology the Ganges River dolphin is associated with Ganga Mata, the deity of the Ganges River. The dolphin is said to be among the creatures which heralded the goddess' descent from the heavens and her mount, the Makara, is sometimes depicted as a dolphin. In the Rig Veda,the Ganga (Jhanavi) and the River dolphins are mentioned in adjacent verses. This mammal is also said to represent the purity of the holy Ganga as it can only survive in pure and fresh water. It is indeed our duty to protect and preserve this Wonder of the Natural World that Mother Nature has bestowed upon us.

SOURCES

(1) Wikipedia – South Asian River Dolphin (Link)

(2) WWF India – Ganges River Dolphin (Link)

(3) Animal Info: Endangered Animals – Platanista gangetica gangetica (Link)

(4) Indian Government – National Aquatic Animal (Link)

(5) India Divine – The Triveni Sangam (Link)

IMAGES

(2) Credit: Francois Xavier (Link)
Original: Francois Xavier PELLETIER /WWF Canon

(3) Credit: Roland Seitre (Link)
Original: FedePhoto

Atithi Devo Bhavah

Credit: International Crane Foundation

The real India, as Mahatma Gandhi once said, lies in her myriad villages and no worthwhile development is possible on the national front without the active participation of our rural brothers. Although most of our villages are still plagued by social evils and insufficient infrastructure development, there is no doubt in the fact that village communities have the potential to improve their living, without much assistance from the government, when the people are inspired and their infinite energies are directed in the right manner. The village of Khichan in the Jodhpur district of Rajasthan is a perfect example of how community development and social activism at the rural level can help villagers improve their living standards. The village, which has become popular among bird watchers, achieved international recognition when it was featured in Birding World magazine in an article titled, “Khichan - the Demoiselle crane village."

Located in the pristine sands of the Thar desert, Khichan is just like any other village located in the region. From the outside, there is not much in the village that makes it stand apart from the other villages that surround it. The economy is agrarian and the nearest town, Phalodi, located 4.5 km away, is renowned for its salt industry. However, with the onset of winter, winged visitors from plains and steppes of Eurasia and Mongolia come to this village, primarily due to the tradition of feeding wild birds established here, a few decades ago. The feeding programme, coupled with the presence of sand dunes and water ponds, has made this place a favourite destination for the migratory Demoiselle cranes, while on their stay in India.

The Demoiselle cranes (Anthropides virgo) are the smallest and second most abundant species of cranes in the world, with sightings being reported from as many as 47 countries. They weigh about 2-3 kg with a height of 89 cm and wing span of 155 -180 cm. Essentially grassland birds, the cranes have plain bluish gray plumage and are omnivores. They mainly feed on plant materials, insects, peanuts, beans and other cereal grains, and small animals. Demoiselle cranes have to take one of the toughest migrations in the world. In late August through September, they gather in flocks of up to 400 individuals and prepare for their flight to their winter range. Along their arduous journey they have to cross the Himalayan mountains to get to their over wintering grounds in India, many die from fatigue, hunger and predation from birds such as eagles. At their wintering grounds, Demoiselles have been observed flocking with Common cranes, their combined totals reaching up to 20,000 individuals.

The annual feeding spectacle began when a local, belonging to the Jain community, started offering grains to the feathered visitors or Kurjars, as they are locally known here. Soon as the number of people looking after the cranes grew, the feathered visitors seem to have been deeply impressed by the 'Khichan brand of hospitality'. This can be inferred from the fact that the number of Demoiselles arriving in this place annually, grew from a few dozen in the 1980s to well over 15,000 today. Although omnivores, villagers in the Khichan, like in other parts of the Thar, venerate them for their perceived vegetarian eating habits and for the norm of keeping a single life partner all through their lifetime. In fact both of the above perceived behavioral patterns of these cranes are consistent with the teachings of Mahavir, the founder of Jainism, which continues to thrive in this part of the country.

Credit: International Crane Foundation

With the donations coming primarily from the Jain community, the villagers have constructed a rectangular enclosure 50x60 m at the edge of the village, known locally as Chugga Ghar(Feeding Centre). The children of the village chip in their bit and it is their duty to spread the grains before the flocks of cranes arrive for their breakfast session of about 90 min. After feeding, the cranes, in large congregations, are seen at some of the water bodies and sand dunes to the north of Khichan. They face the sun, their tie-like black chest feathers contrasting with the blue winter sky. A short while later they depart in different directions in small family flocks in a disciplined order led by the female, followed closely by two young ones with the male forming the rear guard. Again, during mid-day, they assemble for a drink, followed by an occasional bath, and a second feed. Acrobatic exhibition of mutual affection between couples is also seen. They roost in faraway agriculture fields and return to the same water bodies next day, early in the morning. As per the report of the International crane Foundation:

"All cranes engage in dancing, which includes various behaviors

such as bowing, jumping, running, stick or grass tossing, and wing flapping.

Dancing can occur at any age and is commonly associated with courtship, however,

it is generally believed to be a normal part of motor development for cranes

and can serve to thwart aggression, relieve tension, and strengthen the pair bond."

The people of this village are very protective of their annual visitors. This fact comes into prominence from the story of Sevaram Mallu Parhivar, a local contractor. Seeing that a large number of birds were getting electrocuted, he filed a complaint with the District Administration, asking for placing the electric transmission lines underground. As the DC ignored his repeated complaints, he approached the High Court against the State Electricity Board. However, inspite of his noble intentions, the Court imposed a fine of Rs. 4 lakhs on him. But with the help of the State Forest Department, Sevaram filed an appeal in the High Court and eventually won the case.

Credit: International Crane Foundation

In fact such is the love and admiration of the Demoiselles that they have become a part of the local tradition and culture. They are an integral part of the desert love lore about Marwari migrants of yore who were forced to live separately from their loved ones due to compulsions of trade. Fussy eaters amongst the kids are known as 'Kurjars' and engaged girls are fondly referred to as 'Kurjaris'. The birds are revered as messengers of God and are believed to yield magical powers.

The place is soon developing into a magnet for tourists. A large number of travelers, both local and international, come to Khichan to see and study these migratory birds from such close range and in such large numbers. Their flights, in the setting of the conventional mansions (some of them are heritage buildings being converted to tourist lodges) of the village, present brilliant photo-ops. The Marwar Crane Foundation has pledged financial support to the feeding program. A director of the International Crane Foundation has visited Khichan. This foundation is also supporting the efforts of Marwar Crane Foundation in feeding the cranes. The government, for a change, has been quick enough to realize the potential of this place as a popular tourist attraction, thanks to the cranes and peculiar indigenous architecture. As such, the State government has given heritage status to the village and it has also got a package of Rs. 75 lakhs from the Union government in the last budget.

In recent times, the cranes have been disturbed by dogs and passing villagers. To add to the problems, illegal encroachments have developed over the years, much to the consternation of bird watching vacation tourists. There has been also an effort to move the prevailing feeding area as it has become too crowded but it has not yet been implemented. Also, the feeding program has led to a drastic increase in the number of crows, pigeons and rats in the village, which has increased the vulnerability to diseases. Besides, a significant number of the people here feel that it would be better if the money was spent on the poor and the needy, rather than the migratory birds.

Although there will be skeptics, the village of Khichan is a testimonial to the fact that man and nature can co-exist peacefully. The villagers here have realized the fact that their own survival is inter-linked with that of their feathered friends. It is instances like this that bring to light, the amount of knowledge that is present in the interiors of India, and make us proud to be Indians.

Credit: International Crane Foundation

Special Thanks to : Vishwanath Bhat

SOURCES

(1) NDTV Profit: Apollo Presents - The Unstoppable Indians (Link)

(2) The Hindu - Desert turns birds’ paradise (Link)

(3) Lal Nivas - Demoiselle Cranes: The Royalty of Khichan (Link)

(4) Wikipedia – Khichan (Link)

IMAGES

(1) Credit: International Crane Foundation (Link)

Original: Demoiselle Cranes

(2)  Credit: International Crane Foundation (Link)

Original: Demoiselle Cranes

(3) Credit: International Crane Foundation (Link) 
Original: Demoiselle Cranes

 (4) Credit: Wikipedia (Link)

Original: Anthropoides virgo at Twycros Zoo