The rare Sirkeer Malkoha (Taccocua leschenaultii), a bird species typically found in the plains of Uttarakhand, has made its debut in the Uttarkashi district. This significant sighting occurred earlier this month by a team from the Upper Yamuna Forest Division near Barkot, adding to the avifaunal records of the region.
According to officials, the Sirkeer Malkoha was observed and photographed in areas surrounding Barkot. This bird usually inhabits dry scrub forests and open woodlands at elevations below 1,000 meters. Its detection in the higher altitudes of Uttarkashi is considered remarkable and noteworthy from both ecological and scientific viewpoints.
Forest Range Officer Rawai Shekhar Singh Rana characterized the Sirkeer Malkoha as a long-tailed bird with an olive-brown plumage and a distinctively curved red beak. Known for its elusive nature, this species generally favors warmer, low-altitude environments. Its unexpected presence in the Barkot area suggests potential shifts in habitat use, warranting closer investigation by researchers.
Officials have indicated that the bird’s movement into higher regions may be associated with broader environmental and climatic changes. As birds are sensitive indicators of climate change, their rapid responses to temperature alterations and habitat modifications make this sighting particularly significant for ongoing biodiversity and climate studies in the Himalayan region.
Uttarkashi district has recorded nearly 370 bird species to date, showcasing its rich and diverse ecosystems. The addition of the Sirkeer Malkoha enhances this list and reinforces the need for intensified conservation and research efforts in the region. Forest officials emphasize that the presence of other rare or previously unrecorded bird species in the district is possible, underscoring the ecological importance of continuous monitoring and habitat protection.
Q1. What is the Sirkeer Malkoha?
Answer: The Sirkeer Malkoha (Taccocua leschenaultii) is a rare bird species known for its olive-brown plumage and curved red beak, typically inhabiting low-altitude forests.
Q2. Why is the sighting of the Sirkeer Malkoha significant?
Answer: Its sighting in Uttarkashi marks an unusual occurrence for this species, suggesting possible habitat shifts linked to environmental changes, which is crucial for biodiversity studies.
Q3. Where was the Sirkeer Malkoha sighted?
Answer: The bird was sighted in the Barkot area of Uttarkashi district, which is notable as it usually inhabits regions below 1,000 meters.
Q4. How do birds indicate climate change?
Answer: Birds are considered sensitive indicators of climate change because they quickly respond to changes in temperature and habitat, making them valuable for ecological monitoring.
Q5. How many bird species have been recorded in Uttarkashi?
Answer: Uttarkashi district has documented nearly 370 bird species, reflecting its ecological richness and diversity.
Question 1: What is the typical habitat of the Sirkeer Malkoha?
A) Wetlands
B) Dry scrub forests
C) Mountainous regions
D) Urban areas
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Why is the Sirkeer Malkoha's sighting in Uttarkashi significant?
A) It is a common bird in the region
B) It indicates a shift in climate
C) It is a migratory bird
D) It has no significance
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: At what altitude is the Sirkeer Malkoha typically found?
A) Above 2000 meters
B) Below 1000 meters
C) Between 1000 to 1500 meters
D) Only in coastal areas
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which region is known for its biodiversity hotspot that includes Uttarkashi?
A) Western Ghats
B) Himalayas
C) Indo-Gangetic Plain
D) Thar Desert
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What does the presence of the Sirkeer Malkoha indicate about the local environment?
A) High pollution levels
B) Changes in habitat use
C) Urban development
D) Decline in biodiversity
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What role do birds play in climate monitoring?
A) They have no role
B) They are indicators of environmental changes
C) They only migrate
D) They are pets
Correct Answer: B
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