A six-month-old Great Indian Bustard, recently released as part of a conservation initiative, was killed by a desert fox in Rajasthan’s Desert National Park shortly after its introduction to the wild. This incident has prompted wildlife authorities to reassess safety protocols surrounding the release of captive-bred birds. The male bustard was one of two birds released on October 4 as part of a programme aimed at increasing the population of this critically endangered species.

Both birds were bred and hand-reared at the Wildlife Institute of India’s (WII) breeding centre located in Sam, near Jaisalmer. The release was hailed as a significant achievement, reflecting nearly a decade of dedicated efforts by scientists and researchers. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav expressed gratitude for the support received in the conservation of the Great Indian Bustard (GIB).

The unfortunate event occurred on a Sunday when the bird was located near a natural water source within the park. Its movements were being tracked via a satellite device. Upon receiving an alert from the tracking system, scientists and Forest Department officials rushed to the scene, but the bird was already deceased. Remains and feathers were discovered, indicating that the fox had fled after the attack.

Review of Conservation Procedures Initiated

In light of this incident, WII scientists and Forest Department officials have decided to conduct a thorough review of the procedures governing the release of captive-bred bustards and the existing safety measures at the release site. The aim is to enhance the protocols to ensure the safety of the remaining birds.

The experimental rehabilitation programme seeks to bolster the population of the Great Indian Bustard and restore its presence in its natural habitat. Eleven captive-bred birds, each around six months old, were earmarked for release as part of this initiative. Following the initial release of two males on October 4, two additional males were released the following Wednesday.

With one bird now deceased, authorities have stated that the remaining seven bustards will only be released after a comprehensive assessment of conservation protocols and safety measures. Forest officials noted that the attack occurred despite regular patrols and existing safeguards.

Challenges of Reintroducing Captive-Bred Birds

The Great Indian Bustard, known locally as the Godawan, is one of India’s most endangered bird species. This incident underscores the difficulties associated with reintroducing captive-bred animals into their natural environments, where they face predators and various threats. Wildlife experts have observed that birds raised in captivity may lack the experience necessary to recognise and respond effectively to predators.

Despite the setback, wildlife teams remain committed to the conservation programme. They believe that such challenges will only strengthen their resolve to achieve the long-term objectives of the initiative. The review will help determine the future course of action regarding the remaining releases while balancing the need for individual bird protection with the goal of establishing a sustainable wild population.

The three other birds that were released are currently safe and are being monitored as they navigate different areas of the Desert National Park. Their movements are continuously tracked via satellite, ensuring that authorities remain informed about their wellbeing in the wild.

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