Why is it in the news?
First inter-state conservation initiative achieved successful hatching.
Boost to revival efforts of critically endangered species.
Category: Environment
Important Points:
● One of the heaviest flying birds in the world
● Found mainly in Rajasthan’s Thar Desert
● Also present in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and AP
● Indicator species for grassland ecosystem health
● Omnivorous bird species
● Vulnerable to power line collisions
● Protected under Schedule I of Wildlife Protection Act
● Listed as Critically Endangered by IUCN
● Covered under Project GIB (2016)
● Conservation includes breeding and habitat protection