Question: According to the recent report published about the Birds of Sundarbans, what is the total number of species of birds are existing in these forest nowadays?
a) 328
b) 428
c) 500
d) 528
Answer: (b)
Related Facts:-
- In 2021 Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) a publication released from Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has declared that Sunderbans in India is home to 428 species of birds.
- It should be noted that Sunderbans of India is part of the largest mangrove forest in the world.
- In the publication, released by the ZSI, a report titled as Birds of the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve, comprehensively documented the avifauna of the Sunderbans.
- This report also serves as comprehensive photographic field guide, with detailed distribution and locality data for all the species from the region.
- Authors of the publication said the book with photographs of male and female of species is aimed to kindle interest and spread knowledge about birds among people from all walks of life.
- The Indian Sundarban, which covers 4,200 sq km, comprises of the Sundarban Tiger Reserve of 2,585 sq km — home to about 96 Royal Bengal Tigers (as per last census in 2020 ).
- This forest is also a world heritage site and a Ramsar Site.
- The scientists said that of the 428 birds listed, some, like the Masked Finfoot and Buffy fish owl, are recorded only from the Sundarban.
- The area is home to nine out of 12 species of kingfishers found in the country as well rare species such as the Goliath heron and Spoon-billed Sandpiper.
- India has over 1,300 species of birds and if 428 species of birds are from Sundarban, it means that one in every three birds in the country is found in the unique ecosystem.
- The publication not only highlights the ecological and conversation aspect of the Sundarban but it also encourages encourage bird-watching.
- It should be noted that year 2021 is being observed by the scientists and nature lovers as the 125th birth anniversary year of Salim Ali, the Birdman of India.
- The ZSI director said bird watching not only brings people closer to nature but also creates awareness and livelihood opportunities for the locals.
- Sundarban are the most diverse of natural landscapes and accounts to 60 % of all mangrove forests in the country.
- The mudflats located in these forests, exposed in the low tides, are rich in microorganism deposited during tidal activity are ideal feeding for migratory birds.
- These mudflats and wetlands of Sundarban act as a stopover site for migratory flight south (south wards) and back.
By – Rajesh Tripathi