Guwahati: Among the 182 endangered avian species within the Indian subcontinent, the lesser-known Swamp Grass-babbler (Laticilla cinerascens) confronts significant threats to its habitat.
A groundbreaking study on the endangered Swamp Grass-babbler has highlighted the critical threats and vulnerabilities faced by this elusive bird. This collaborative research, conducted by the Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata, India, and Pukyong National University in Busan, South Korea, and published in the Heliyon Journal, emphasizes the bird’s specific habitat requirements and limited populations in Northeast India.
The current distribution of the Swamp Grass-babbler spans the entire Brahmaputra floodplain in northeast India. Its range extends eastward along the Subansiri River in North Lakhimpur, Assam, located on the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River.
Recent observations have expanded its known range to include Tinsukia and Dibrugarh in Assam, primarily from Dibru Saikhowa National Park (DSNP) on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra. Sightings have also been recorded in the Kamrup district near Guwahati and at the Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary near Majuli in Assam.
The Swamp Grass-babbler was frequently observed in DSNP and served as its sole refuge for many years. However, in 2010, the species was last sighted in this protected area as the grasslands on its periphery were entirely burned and cleared by local communities for agricultural purposes.
This resulted in an extended absence of sightings of this species within the park or any other location for about four years. Subsequently, in 2014, the species was recorded in the D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh and has continued to be observed since then.
Possibly due to heightened awareness among local communities residing near DSNP, the grassland habitat gradually regenerated, leading to the species being sighted once again in 2019, marking its reappearance after nearly a decade. Furthermore, in 2020, the species was spotted for the first time near the Brahmaputra Plains on the outskirts of Guwahati City, as documented on social media platforms.
Worrying Trend
The study delves into the distribution of the species, assessing habitat quality, connectivity among protected areas (PAs), and the impact of climate change. It reveals that out of the total distribution area of 142,000 sq. km., only about 9,366 sq. km. (6.59%) is deemed suitable for the Swamp Grass-babbler.
“Historically centered around Dibru Saikhowa National Park, the species has seen a drastic decline due to human activities and changes in land use,” stated Imon Abedin from the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata.
“The research also indicates a worrying trend: the most suitable habitat, found in Dibru Saikhowa National Park, is projected to shrink by over 90% under severe climate change scenarios,” said Tanoy Mukherjee from the Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata. Additionally, the study predicts a substantial increase (343%) in small, fragmented habitat patches in the future, with connectivity among PAs expected to decrease by more than 20%.
Hope Remains
Despite these grim findings, some positive aspects were observed. Connectivity between two south bank protected areas, Dibru Saikhowa National Park and Pani-Dihing Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as Kaziranga National Park, remains substantial across various future projections. Notably, an increase in connectivity between Dibru Saikhowa National Park and D’Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary was reported.
“This is significant as the Brahmaputra River, traditionally an ecological barrier, seems to facilitate increased connectivity here due to the narrow width and the presence of sedimented islands with grassland ecosystems,” explained Shantanu Kundu from Pukyong National University.
The Way Forward
Hyun-Woo Kim, from Pukyong National University, emphasized the urgent need for conservation actions. The study underscores the complex interplay of climate change, habitat suitability, and fragmentation. Prioritizing protected areas with suitable habitats and enhancing their connectivity is crucial.
Researchers associated with the study say conservation endeavors must prioritize the preservation and restoration of habitats, with a focus on mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and addressing the underlying causes of habitat destruction.
Moreover, it is crucial to undertake extensive surveys in Northeast India, with a specific focus on the grassland habitats of the Siang, Dibang, Subansiri, and Lohit River valleys, alongside areas beyond designated protected zones, to assess the feasibility of translocation and the initiation of breeding programs for the Swamp Grass-babbler.
“Moreover, it is essential to establish long-term monitoring and research programs to better understand how this species, as well as other grassland inhabitants, respond to habitat alterations, and to protect populations that currently lack adequate conservation measures. Conclusively, collaborative endeavors engaging local communities, policymakers, and conservation organizations are imperative for safeguarding the endangered Swamp Grass-babbler and its delicate ecosystem from the escalating threats it confronts,” the researchers asserted.
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