Current conservation status of Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis in Manas National Park, Assam, India

A recent survey of the Critically Endangered Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis) in Manas National Park, Assam, India, reveals a significant population increase since 2009, with 50 males and 17 females recorded. This contrasts with earlier estimates of just 24 males in 2009, suggesting long-term recovery. However, the study highlights severe threats to their grassland habitats, including uncontrolled natural succession, livestock grazing, invasive plant growth, and non-timber forest product (NTFP) collection by local communities. These disturbances also impact other grassland-dependent species such as the Pygmy Hog, Hispid Hare, and Indian Rhino, emphasizing the urgent need for habitat protection and restoration to ensure the survival of this vulnerable bird and its ecosystem.

Thakur, M., Kalita, J., Brahma, N., Rajbongshi, K., Bhattacharyya, K., Sarmah, A. C., Alolika Sinha, Dutta, D. K., Das, D., & Lahkar, B. P. (2024). Current conservation status of Bengal Florican Houbaropsis bengalensis in Manas National Park, Assam, India. Journal of Threatened Taxa, 16(7), 25507–25515. https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.8247.16.7.25507-25515