The conservation of the great Indian bustard Ardeotis nigriceps (Vigors) in the Karera Bustard Sanctuary

Abstract

The great Indian bustard Ardeotis nigriceps is one of the most endangered birds of India. Perhaps not more than 2000 survive. Lately, the Indian Government has taken conservation measures to protect it by declaring 10 bustard sanctuaries and protected areas. Karera Bustard Sanctuary in Central India has shown promising results but as the sanctuary is in the agricultural area, it has numerous problems, particularly the spread of agriculture and settlements, changes in the crop pattern due to development of better irrigation facilities, and overgrazing. Development of core areas for bustard breeding, and active management of the habitat, have been suggested as a strategy to save the great Indian bustard from extinction.