Waterhole census in DNP records rise in GIB count
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In a similar survey in 2024, 64 bustards were seen, while no count was conducted in 2023 due to heavy rains. In 2022, 42 bustards were recorded.
The sighting of a larger number of GIBs, a species that is on the brink of extinction, has enthused wildlife lovers, who point out that the GIB population is increasing both in the wild and at the breeding centres at Sudasari and Ramdevra.
B M Gupta, DFO of Desert National Park, stated that joint efforts by Union and state govts, along with scientists from the Wildlife Institute of India, are yielding promising results. The census, which lasted 24 hours, involved counting wildlife at natural and artificial water sources. At DNP, the census was held at 52 water points. Along with 73 GIBs, 47 desert cats, 125 foxes, 120 desert foxes, 2,133 chinkaras, 150 vultures, 106 cranes, and approximately 250 peafowls were spotted.
DFO in Jaisalmer, Kumar Shubham, stated this year's census showed a 20% increase in the total wildlife population across the six ranges of Jaisalmer forest division.
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