Red-Wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus): A Traditional Rain Forecaster for Tribal Farmers of Southwestern Rajasthan

Abstract

Abstract An intensive survey was carried out over the past 8 years in tribal-dominated areas of southwestern Rajasthan to document red-wattled lapwing (Vanellus indicus) behavior as a rain forecaster, relevant to farm planning and better crop production. The present study included tribal farmers, agriculture scientists, extension workers, ornithologists, and farm workers. The precision of their observations was compared with a contemporaneous study of 10–15 red-wattled lapwing nests across the 46-ha operational area of the Agricultural Research Sub-Station (ARSS) and Adaptive Trial Center (ATC), Sumerpur, Pali, Rajasthan (25.1526°N latitude, 73.0823°E longitude). Local knowledge was gathered through surveys and focus group discussions with the respondents to discuss lapwing behavior as a rain prediction indicator. Meteorological data were gathered from the ATC farm observatory. The findings revealed that the older tribal farmers have an assortment of knowledge about the behavior of red-wattled lapwing as rain prediction indicators such as nesting sites, egg position, egg arrangement, nesting material, numbers of eggs, and egg-laying patterns. These predictions have a direct correlation with modern meteorological observations. It was also noted that the elder tribal farmers planned their farms using lapwing indicators in order to increase crop production, whereas younger generations overlook the traditional rain prediction indicators and have significant knowledge about meteorological data-based weather forecasting. Both the elder and younger tribal farmers were equally interested in meteorological weather forecast announcements, but due to network connectivity challenges, residents in some remote places were unable to access modern meteorological information. Long-term accurate rain forecasting is needed for better agricultural planning and to secure crop production. Rain forecasting can be improved by blending modern meteorological information with traditional proven indications. Farmers who have considerable traditional knowledge along with modern technological updates are capable of using both sources of information in suitable and successful farm planning for better crop production. Significance Statement The purpose of this study is to examine red-wattled lapwing behavior as rain measurements and compare its reliability with modern rain forecasting methods. We also develop a theoretical framework for understanding traditional and modern rain forecasting methods for disaster management in remote and accessible areas, to assist resource management and to minimize costs of cultivation. Our results provide a guideline for blending both types of knowledge and for providing relevant information to remote tribal areas at appropriate times for better farm planning and crop production.