GREATER ADJUTANT STORK -
ENVIRONMENT
News: In Frames | Adjutant loses
territory
What's in the news?
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The greater adjutant stork is one of the most
endangered bird species.
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Its habitat is in the Brahmaputra valley of Assam.
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The birds are found mostly in three districts of
Assam — Guwahati, Morigaon, and Nagaon.
Key takeaways:
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With the wetlands of Assam giving way to rapid
urbanisation, the endangered greater adjutant storks are finding their survival
to be a daily struggle.
Greater Adjutant Stork:
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Greater adjutant storks are large birds known for their scavenging
behavior, particularly on carrion and waste.
Habitat:
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The Greater Adjutant Stork, locally known as ‘Garuda’ inhabits wetlands and marshy
areas.
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It is once commonly found in southern Asia and mainland southeast Asia, but is now restricted to
a small area Assam and Bihar in India.
Features:
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It is a member of the stork family, Ciconiidae.
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There are about 20 species in the family.
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This large bird is known for its distinct
appearance, with a long neck, large
bill, and a prominent gular pouch.
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It is principally carnivorous, feeding on fish, frogs, snakes, other reptiles, eels,
birds, offal and carrion.
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It shares the habit of scavenging with vultures.
Protection Status:
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IUCN Red List - Endangered
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Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 - Schedule IV
Significance:
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They are considered the mount of Vishnu, one of Hinduism’s prime deities.
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Some worship the bird and call it “Garuda Maharaj”
(Lord Garuda) or “Guru Garuda” (Great Teacher Garuda).
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Greater adjutant storks play a crucial role in waste management by scavenging on
carrion and waste, contributing to ecological balance.
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They help farmers by killing rats and other farm pests.