Great Indian bustard  (Ardeotis nigriceps)

The great Indian bustard has become extinct in almost 90% of its former range, principally as a result of loss of habitat and poaching (6). The conversion of the land for agriculture and widespread hunting, which became more prevalent with the onset of vehicle transport, have both contributed to the precipitous decline in this species (2).

The great Indian bustard is listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 in India and international trade is prohibited by its listing on Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) (5). A number of sanctuaries have been set up with the aim of preserving this species; however, this may not be the most effective means of conservation, as population numbers have continued to decline. The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is urging the Indian Government to adopt a ‘Project Bustard’ scheme along the same lines of ‘Project Tiger’ (6). Such a high-profile project would be invaluable for raising awareness about the plight of India’s 4 bustard species, and would be an important method of preserving the arid grassland habitat that is currently poorly protected in this country (6).