Second bird survey in Sardarpur Sanctuary unveils 24 new species

The quiet trails of the Sardarpur Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Kharmor Forest in the Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh, came alive with a flutter of wings and bursts of colour as bird lovers and conservationists gathered for a remarkable discovery. During the "Second Bird Survey-2024," the Kharmor Forest revealed 24 previously undocumented bird species in the area, bringing the total number of birds in the sanctuary to 94.  

Historically,  "Kharmor Forest" has a deep connection with a type of bird known as Kharmor or Bhaat Kukda, found in the region. The bird, scientifically known as the Lesser Florican, is a distinctive species belonging to the Bustard family. The region's moong (green gram) cultivation once attracted insects, the primary food of Kharmor birds, making the bird vital to grassland ecosystems and agriculture.

The survey identified 24 new bird species, some never previously recorded in the area, marking a significant milestone in Kharmor Forest’s biodiversity.

In the first bird survey conducted in 2021, a total of 72 species were documented, including rare sightings of Montagu's Harrier, Pallid Harrier, and the Red-necked Falcon. That survey also recorded various larks, such as the Crested Lark, Sykes's Lark, and Tawny Lark, along with vibrant buntings like the Black-headed Bunting and Red-headed Bunting.

Team and methodology

The second Kharmor forest survey was conducted by a diverse team, for over three days. It comprised officials from the Dhar Forest Division, conservation groups, local communities, volunteers from across the country, and members of Wildlife Warriors, an Indore-based NGO. 

The team meticulously documented, photographed, and identified bird species, with their findings highlighting the sanctuary's rich biodiversity. These results not only celebrate the ecological wealth of the region but also serve as a renewed call for its conservation.

"We used a combination of tools such as binoculars, high-resolution cameras, and sound recorders to document sightings accurately," says Anshuman Sharma, a volunteer from Wildlife Warriors.

"By employing point counts and transect walks, we systematically covered various grassland patches, ensuring a thorough survey," he adds.

The team utilised the E-bird app, a global bird-tracking platform, to log observations in real-time. This integration of technology with traditional bird-watching techniques allowed the team to identify and record species more efficiently, offering a detailed snapshot of the sanctuary's avian population.

The integration of technology with traditional bird-watching techniques enabled the team to identify and record species more efficiently, providing a detailed snapshot of the sanctuary's avian population.

Ritesh Khabia of Wildlife Warriors explains,

"For six years, we've collaborated with the Forest Department on wildlife surveys in areas like Gandhi Sagar, Satpura, and Rata Pani, sending teams into remote forests to document wildlife."

During the second bird survey, teams stationed across the sanctuary used photographs and detailed reports to record bird species. Despite dense terrain and remote locations, their dedication and the Forest Department’s support ensured success. 

"For dense forests like Sardarpur, we usually start surveys on a Friday and wrap up by Sunday,” Ritesh explains. “Coordination with the Forest Department is essential—they ensure we have all the necessary resources.”

Bird boost

The survey's discovery of 24 new bird species in the forest. Notable sightings included the Isabelline Shrike and Pallid Harrier, migratory species wintering in India. The Isabelline Shrike is found in open woodlands and scrublands, while the near-threatened Pallid Harrier prefers grasslands and marshes. 

The Western Marsh Harrier thrives in wetlands, feeding on small mammals and birds. The Crested Lark and Tawny Lark are adapted to dry, open areas and forage on the ground. The sighting of the Bluethroat, a small bird with a distinctive blue throat patch, was exciting as it typically inhabits reed beds and marshes during migration.

The sanctuary recorded sightings of the Common Rosefinch, a finch with a striking red head and chest, and the Red-headed Bunting, known for its vivid red head and yellow body, both seen during their migrations. The Black-headed Bunting, another colourful migrant, is distinguishable by its dark head and vibrant yellow plumage.

Survey volunteer Sharma describes the landscape as unique, emphasising its open grassland habitat, which sets it apart from the dense forests typically found in Madhya Pradesh. "Stepping into Kharmor Sanctuary was like entering a different world," he shares.

"The sight of raptors soaring overhead and the calls of grassland birds all around was magical. It felt like every bird had a story to tell, adding to the sanctuary's vibrant tapestry."

The Kharmor forest’s tall grasslands are crucial for the bird’s breeding rituals. Khabia noted that the male Lesser Florican requires tall grass for its mating display, which involves high leaps. The bird cannot display effectively without the right grass height, making this habitat vital for reproduction.

"Kharmor numbers here were once abundant, but they have declined significantly," Khabia explained. "Now, we only spot one or two during the breeding season."

Ongoing surveys in Sadarpur and an eco-tourism park near Indore are monitoring current population trends. He also noted that the Lesser Florican is most visible just before the monsoon season, though further research is needed to determine whether the species migrates or remains local year-round. To protect the birds during their breeding season, the sanctuary team refrains from disclosing exact population numbers to avoid disturbances from visitors.

Importance of the survey

Bird surveys like the one in Kharmor Forest are vital. They track bird populations and migrations and contribute to wildlife conservation. Understanding birds’ role in the ecosystem is crucial for preserving regional biodiversity.  Santosh Kumar Ranshor, Sub-Forest Officer of Sardarpur, underscores birds' crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. "Birds are essential to the environment. They promote pollination, sustain natural cycles, and their diversity reflects the health of the ecosystem," he explains. The forest, home to wildlife such as hyenas, jackals, wild foxes, and rabbits, thrives on the same interconnected ecosystem that birds help maintain.

"The biodiversity of Kharmor Forest reflects the success of conservation efforts despite challenges like human encroachment and climate change," Ranshor says, expressing hope that the survey’s findings will inspire further initiatives. "We started tracking endangered species and were thrilled to find rare birds here." A detailed report is being prepared to document the findings.

Birds in MP

Madhya Pradesh has long been a paradise for birders. During the monsoon season, it transforms into a haven for migratory birds, including the Jacobin Cuckoo from South Africa, which finds refuge in its lush grasslands. In winter, the state offers some of the best bird-watching opportunities. The Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise, with over 300 species, including migratory birds like Bar-headed geese and Mallards. Satpura Tiger Reserve, known for its unique terrain and water bodies, hosts winter visitors like the Steppe Eagle and Ruddy Shelduck. Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, near Neemuch and Mandsaur, is home to migratory species like Flamingos and Spoonbills.

Similarly, in Bhopal, Van Vihar National Park offers a rich experience, where visitors can spot the Sarus Crane and Drongo. Other spots include Sirpur Lake, Bargi Dam, and Bheemgarh Tank, making Madhya Pradesh ideal for bird enthusiasts. 

Looking ahead

The "Second Bird Survey-2024" in Kharmor Forest highlighted the strength of collaboration between the Forest Department, conservation groups, and local communities.

"These surveys go beyond documenting birds; they create awareness and engage people in conservation," says Khabia.

Despite the forest being named after the Kharmor or Lesser Florican, sightings of this critically endangered bird remain rare, raising questions about the effectiveness of conservation efforts. While the survey recorded 24 new bird species, the absence of the sanctuary's namesake underscores the urgent need for action. The state government must confront the reality of its commitment to protecting the Lesser Florican. Without immediate efforts to restore habitats and safeguard breeding grounds, Kharmor Forest risks becoming a historical artefact rather than a thriving sanctuary for its iconic species.

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