Great Indian bustard  (Ardeotis nigriceps)

In the 19th century, flocks of more than 20 birds were a common site on Indian grasslands but today groups are unlikely to number more than 3 individuals (5). Little is known about the breeding ecology of the great Indian bustard. Although it is possible for breeding to take place year-round, it seems to be mainly dictated by the monsoon (5). Nests are situated in the open ground and males take no part in incubation or care of the developing young; only a single egg is usually laid (5). The fledglings tend to remain with their mother until the following breeding season (5).

Great Indian bustards are opportunists, feeding on a wide range of items depending on their seasonal availability. Invertebrates such as grasshoppers and beetles are the preferred diet but in leaner times these are substituted with seeds such as Bengal gram, groundnut and soeha (5).