Executive Summary : | There are three Himalayan Swiftlet Aerodromus brevirostris, Indian Swiftlet Aerodramus unicolor, Edible-nest Swiftlet Aerodramus fuciphegus, Glossy Swiftlet Collocalia esculenta. The species is endangered and is listed under Schedule - I (Wildlife Protection Act 1972). The species is economically important as the nest of Indian Swiftlet made with its saliva is a delicacy and is threatening the survival of edible-nest swiftlets throughout their distribution ranges. During the past three to four decades, there has been a high demand in international market for the nest of these bird species, which has led to uncontrolled harvesting and overuse that is directly affecting the populations of these cave dwelling species.
The present study involves study of the Indian Edible-nest Swiftlet from Western Ghats from southern Maharashtra. The study area has been restricted to the State of Maharashtra as most of the population of Indian Swiftlet is found in Maharashtra. The studies will be carried out by locating caves, estimating population, breeding population and non-breeding population. Using locations of the caves, distribution map of the species will be generated. Intensive Study Areas (ISA). and Select ISA spatially based on the population size and accessibility would be mapped. A periodic visit will be conducted to the numbered nests to understand breeding biology, chronology and success throughout its distribution. Habitat studies, breeding habitat, foraging habits and habitat.6 colonies in Northern and 6 colonies in Southern Western Ghats will be selected and Birds will be captured using Mist-Nets Capture at the cave opening during dawn or dusk while leaving or returning to roost. Once capture the bird, collect morphometric data such as lengths of wing, tail, body, bill, tarsus and others Plumage Moulting will be studied. Letter no. 22(8) Research/CR-39118-191/1324-2019-2020 Dated 4.7.2019 received from Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wild Life), State Forest Department, Ramgiri, Nagpur Maharashtra obtained. Objective:
i. To estimate the population and evaluate the distribution pattern of the Indian Swiftlet in the Coastal Districts including offshore islands of Maharashtra. To study the distribution pattern and its relationship with local communities, population status, ecological issues, anthropogenic factors.
ii. To understand breeding ecology (breeding biology and nesting and foraging habitat) of the Indian Swiftlet in the Coastal Districts including offshore islands of Maharashtra and to determine the viable population of Indian Swiftlet.
iii. To identify threats including status of poaching and formulate the Conservation Plan for the Indian Swiftlet in the Coastal Districts including offshore islands of Maharashtra. The study should form the basis of Species Recovery Plan which should be included in the Objectives.
iv. Public participation is necessary for protection of Indian Swiftlet nest to prevent decline of its population. Component of Public and run awareness campaign for poaching prevention and protecting nests should be incorporated as part of project as part of Conservation Plan to prevent further decline of its population. |