A HEALING TOUCH TO AN ENDANGERED BIRD- THE GREAT INDIAN BUSTARD: A CASE STUDY OF ROLLAPADU SANCTUARY

摘要

The Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is one of the most endangered birds in the world. Endemic to the Indian sub-continent, it was once widely distributed but is now confined to six Indian states. The total population is now about 2,000 (Rajasthan: 1,000; Madhya Pradesh: 100; Gujarat: 500; Andhra Pradesh: 100; and Karnataka: ?). The Great Indian Bustard was rediscovered in Andhra Pradesh at Rollapadu Village, near Kurnool District. The Rollapadu Sanctuary was established in 1988 upon acquisition of 614 ha of private lands in Rollapadu Village. About 323 ha of adjoining compensatory afforestation areas are being added to the sanctuary. Other fauna present in the sanctuary include: Indian wolf, jackal, horned owl, Indian fox, blackbuck, hare, sand grouse, Indian courser, cobra, rock python, Russell's viper, saw-scaled viper and monitor lizard. In addition, flamingoes, bar-headed geese and demoiselle cranes migrate to the Rollapadu Sanctuary.