Bengal Florican

Population dynamics, habitat analysis, and threat assessment of the Bengal Florican in the Koshi, Nepal

The Bengal Florican (Houbaropsis bengalensis), one of the world's rarest and most endangered bustards, is critically endangered, with fewer than 1,000 adult individuals worldwide. In Nepal, fewer than 100 individuals remain (a recent survey suggests the number is even lower), with an estimated 31 individuals scattered across three protected areas: Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Chitwan National Park and Shuklaphanta National Park. The largest population of 24 birds is in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, although many live outside protected areas where conservation efforts are minimal.

This species depends on alluvial grasslands dominated by Imperata cylindrica, which are rapidly disappearing. The main threats are habitat loss due to human activities such as grass cutting and seasonal burning. lack of standardized data collection on the species and limited research into their breeding ecology further hamper conservation efforts.

To address these challenges, a new conservation project founded by Stiftung Artenschutz and led by Aditya Pal will start in 2025. The project aims to map breeding sites, study breeding behaviour, implement a habitat management and monitoring protocol. Efforts will focus on the Koshi region outside the reserve, where research is scarce. Community engagement will include surveys, workshops and eco-clubs in schools, providing tools such as binoculars and field guides to raise awareness.

By combining research, habitat management and community involvement, the project aims to halt the decline of the Bengal Florican and ensure its survival in Nepal.