Lesser Florican: A Critical Look at India’s Smallest Bustard

What is the Lesser Florican?

The Lesser Florican (Sypheotides indicus) is a unique bird species from the Bustard family, recognized as the smallest bustard in India. This bird is primarily found in grasslands, making it endemic to the Indian subcontinent.

Habitat of the Lesser Florican

The Lesser Florican thrives in grasslands and similar habitats, including some croplands. It favors areas with tall grasses and ample ground cover, typically residing in regions that experience seasonal rainfall.

Local Names

This bird is known by various local names across India, reflecting its distinct appearance and behaviors. Some of these names include:

• Kharmor (grass peacock) in Gujarat
• Khar titar (grass pheasant) in Rajasthan
• Kharmore (grass peacock), Katkatya (referring to its courtship sounds), and Phudakadya (denoting its jumping behavior during displays) in Rajasthan

Physical Characteristics

Male and female Lesser Floricans can be identified by their unique physical traits. Young birds exhibit a prominent U-shaped marking on their throats. Their plumage is predominantly brownish-grey, complemented by a black neck and white wing patches.

Behavior of the Lesser Florican

These birds are typically solitary and exhibit shy behavior, alongside a territorial nature. During the breeding season, males perform remarkable leaping displays to attract potential mates.

Conservation Status

The Lesser Florican is classified as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List, with a staggering population decline of nearly 80% from 2000 to 2018. Current estimates suggest there are fewer than 250 individuals left.

Geographical Distribution

This species is found in various states, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and regions of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Its population is fragmented, often existing in small, isolated groups.

Threats to Survival

The Lesser Florican faces numerous threats, including:

• Loss and fragmentation of habitat due to agricultural expansion, urbanization, and human activities
• Hunting and poaching
• Collisions with power lines and wind turbines
• Climate change, which disrupts its breeding and feeding behaviors

In 2024, the Supreme Court of India issued orders for its protection, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to save this remarkable bird.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the scientific name of the Lesser Florican?
Answer: The scientific name of the Lesser Florican is Sypheotides indicus, and it is recognized as the smallest bustard in India.

Q2. Where can the Lesser Florican be found in India?
Answer: The Lesser Florican inhabits states such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.

Q3. What are the main threats to the Lesser Florican?
Answer: Major threats include habitat loss due to agriculture, hunting, collisions with infrastructure, and climate change affecting its habitat and breeding.

Q4. How is the Lesser Florican's behavior during the breeding season?
Answer: During breeding, males perform unique leaping displays to attract females, showcasing their territorial and courtship behaviors.

Q5. Why is the Lesser Florican considered critically endangered?
Answer: It is labeled critically endangered due to a significant population decline of almost 80% from 2000 to 2018, with fewer than 250 individuals remaining.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the conservation status of the Lesser Florican?
A) Least Concern
B) Vulnerable
C) Endangered
D) Critically Endangered
Correct Answer: D

Question 2: In which year did the Supreme Court of India order the protection of the Lesser Florican?
A) 2022
B) 2023
C) 2024
D) 2021
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: What is the primary habitat of the Lesser Florican?
A) Forests
B) Grasslands
C) Wetlands
D) Deserts
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which state is NOT known to have the Lesser Florican?
A) Gujarat
B) Madhya Pradesh
C) Himachal Pradesh
D) Rajasthan
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What color is the neck of the male Lesser Florican?
A) Brown
B) White
C) Black
D) Grey
Correct Answer: C