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The Supreme Court on Friday directed the Centre to come clean by February on its plans to save the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard.
A three-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud said the government has to come out with a plan which would save the bird species from extinction largely due to collision with high-transmission power lines situated in areas in Gujarat and Rajasthan which also happen to be the natural habitat of the bustards.
The court said the government’s plan ought to maintain a balance between the preservation of the bird species and India’s global commitments to shed its carbon footprints.
Great Indian Bustard
The Great Indian Bustard AKA Ardeotis nigriceps.
This majestic bird, once widespread across the Indian subcontinent, holds a special place in India's natural heritage.
A large ground bird, standing about a meter tall with a horizontal body and long legs, giving it an ostrich-like appearance.
Males sport a black crown contrasting with pale head and neck, brown wings with black and gray markings, and a black breast band during breeding season.
Females are smaller and less brightly colored.
Critically endangered, with an estimated population of just 150 individuals remaining.
Prefers dry grasslands, scrublands, and semi-desert plains.
Currently confined to Rajasthan, Gujarat, parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Primarily feeds on insects, small reptiles, and seeds.
Solitary except during breeding season, when males perform elaborate courtship displays with booming calls and puffed-up crowns.
Lay one single egg on the ground, making them vulnerable to habitat loss and disturbance.
Habitat loss due to agriculture, infrastructure development, and mining poses the biggest threat.
Collisions with power lines and hunting further endanger their survival.
Conservation efforts include habitat restoration, protected areas, captive breeding programs, and awareness campaigns.
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