Research

Life Sciences & Biotechnology

Title :

Characterisation of wetland habitats in a breeding range of Spot-billed Pelican

Area of research :

Life Sciences & Biotechnology

Focus area :

Ecology, Conservation of Ecology

Principal Investigator :

Dr. Ramesh Tharmalingam, Senior Scientist, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Coimbatore

Timeline Start Year :

2023

Timeline End Year :

2025

Contact info :

Details

Executive Summary :

Wetlands, which have lost over 50% of their area due to human activities, are crucial for the survival of water-dependent water birds. These birds rely on wetland ecosystems for forage availability, refuge, roosting, and nesting. The ecological condition of wetland ecosystems can significantly impact waterbirds' utilization, making it essential to manage and protect multiple wetlands within breeding areas. The Near Threatened, Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis, the largest piscivorous aquatic bird, is an important indicator of healthy wetlands. The species' population decline is primarily due to habitat alteration due to land use changes, pollution, hydrologic regime changes, disturbances, and food supply decline. To improve breeding success, it is crucial to conserve remaining wetlands and characterize habitats at larger landscapes.

Co-PI:

Dr. Riddhika Ramesh, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Coimbatore

Total Budget (INR):

53,58,640

Organizations involved