For the first time, a long-distance migratory bird, the Eurasian or common whimbrel, tagged with a Global Positioning System (GPS) transmitter, was captured on camera in the state of Chhattisgarh. After a three-day stay, the bird has now traveled to Odisha.
Observation and Documentation
Ornithologists and state forest officials observed the bird flying long distances, stopping over in Chhattisgarh due to the presence of wetlands in the Berla area of Bemetara district, approximately 70 km from Raipur. The whimbrel was photographed by bird watchers Himanshu Gupta, Jageshwar Verma, and Avinash Bhoi in Berla.
Importance of Geo-Tagging
Many organizations and countries utilize geo-tagging and color tags to study bird migration patterns and behavior. Ornithologists closely tracking these winged visitors conveyed this information.
Unique Sighting
Ornithologists celebrated the sighting of the migratory bird, scientifically known as Numenius phaeopus, and also referred to as the white-rumped whimbrel in North America. Avinash Bhoi, an ornithologist, highlighted the significance of this sighting: “An incredible sighting in Chhattisgarh and the first time in the country when a whimbrel, fitted with a GPS transmitter in the far-flung La Reunion Island, was seen. It was tagged by Professor Mathieu Lecorre of the University de La Reunion.”
Migration Path and Habitat Importance
According to ornithologist Ravi Naidu from the Bombay National History Society, the long-distance migratory birds arrived in Chhattisgarh through Central India via the Pakistan flyway. Chhattisgarh’s wetlands play a crucial role in serving as stopovers for these birds to feed and rest. Naidu emphasized the need to restore aquatic biodiversity habitats and wetlands facing loss of vegetation and encroachment.
Tagging Details
The Eurasian whimbrel was named ‘Merlene’ by Professor Mathieu Lecorre of the University de La Reunion. The bird was recaptured and fitted with a GPS tag on March 7 this year, as stated by ornithologist Ravi Naidu.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Where was the Eurasian whimbrel, tagged with a GPS transmitter, first captured on camera in India?
- A. Odisha
- B. Gujarat
- C. Chhattisgarh
- D. Rajasthan
- Answer: C. Chhattisgarh
- Why did the Eurasian whimbrel stop over in Chhattisgarh?
- A. To escape predators
- B. Due to the presence of wetlands
- C. For breeding purposes
- D. To find a mate
- Answer: B. Due to the presence of wetlands
- Who tagged the Eurasian whimbrel with the GPS transmitter?
- A. Himanshu Gupta
- B. Jageshwar Verma
- C. Professor Mathieu Lecorre
- D. Avinash Bhoi
- Answer: C. Professor Mathieu Lecorre
- What is the scientific name of the Eurasian whimbrel?
- A. Numenius arquata
- B. Numenius phaeopus
- C. Calidris alba
- D. Tringa nebularia
- Answer: B. Numenius phaeopus
- What was the name given to the Eurasian whimbrel tagged by Professor Mathieu Lecorre?
- A. Nimbus
- B. Merlene
- C. Whimsy
- D. Phineas
- Answer: B. Merlene
- Which organization does ornithologist Ravi Naidu belong to?
- A. BirdLife International
- B. World Wildlife Fund
- C. Bombay National History Society
- D. Audubon Society
- Answer: C. Bombay National History Society
- What was the significance of Chhattisgarh’s wetlands for the migratory birds?
- A. They serve as breeding grounds.
- B. They provide food and rest during migration.
- C. They are the final destination for migration.
- D. They help in escaping from predators.
- Answer: B. They provide food and rest during migration