Wildlife & Environment 26 August 2026
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary Emerges as Major Breeding Hub for Black-Necked Stork: GEER Study
Why in the News?
A recent study conducted by researchers at the Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation revealed that the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary in Jamnagar district, Gujarat, has emerged as a highly favorable breeding ground for the Black-necked Stork. The peer-reviewed study was published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa.
Key Features / Major Points:
100% Fledging Success: The study monitored four active nests, where each breeding pair successfully raised two chicks (totaling 8 chicks), achieving a 100% fledging success rate. Over 21 individuals of this species were recorded during the study period.
Nesting Characteristics: Tending to build nests on native trees like acacia, the storks built nests 3 to 4.5 meters above ground level, close to shallow water bodies (0.3 to 0.7 m deep).
Parental Care: Adults remained at the nest for an average of 62 minutes per shift, and in 94% of foraging flights, one parent seamlessly took over from the other, ensuring continuous protection for eggs and chicks.
Key Conservation Factors: Abundant food availability (fish, crustaceans, amphibians), stable water conditions, and minimal human interference were identified as key drivers for this breeding success.
Static GK Facts:
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary: Location: Jamnagar district, Gujarat | Status: Designated Ramsar Site.
Black-Necked Stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus): Conservation Status: Near Threatened (IUCN Red List). It is one of India's largest waterbird species.
Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation: Location: Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: Which Ramsar site in Gujarat was recently highlighted as a major successful breeding site for the Black-necked Stork?
A: Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary (Jamnagar)
Q: Which organization conducted the field study on the breeding ecology of the Black-necked Stork at Khijadiya?
A: GEER Foundation (Gujarat Ecological Education and Research Foundation)
Q: In which district of Gujarat is the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary situated?
A: Jamnagar District