How an Ajmer village becomes a new hope for the endangered Kharmore bird

Rare Bird Finds Hope in Ajmer’s Fields and Villages (Image: Wikipedia)

Once a common sight across Asia’s open plains, the Kharmore now dances only in India. This rare bird, with its unique leaps and striking colours, is fighting for survival—and in one corner of Rajasthan, people are fighting for it too.

The Kharmore, also called the Lesser Florican, is now critically endangered. Its numbers have dropped to around 400, and it survives only in India. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has added it to its ‘critically endangered’ list. In this bleak scenario, a small village near Ajmer offers new hope.

Artificial Breeding Centre Gives Species a Lifeline
In Arwad village, a special breeding centre has been built. Scientists from the Wildlife Institute of India are managing the project. The centre protects eggs, hatches chicks, and releases them later. Each step uses scientific methods to increase the bird’s chances.

The species, known as Sypheotides indicus, once lived across many Asian nations. Now it’s found in only five Indian states—Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Ajmer district becomes home to these birds during the breeding season.

They visit Bandanwada, Shokaliya, Bhinay and nearby grasslands. Female Kharmores make nests under tall grass or in fields. The breeding season begins with the monsoon rains. Male birds jump high to attract females and warn rivals. During this time, their feathers change and become more colourful.

Villagers and Forest Teams Join the Effort
Ornithologist Dr Abid Ali Khan has studied Kharmores for years. He explains that males grow folded feathers behind their heads. Their bodies change to a mix of black, white and brown. While males become vibrant, females stay plain and smaller.

The species faces many threats from humans and nature. Farming activity after the monsoon destroys hidden nests and eggs. Tractors and machines move through fields, crushing delicate habitats. Wild animals like foxes and mongooses also eat the eggs.

Dr Khan said Kharmores avoid human presence and are highly sensitive. But villagers in Ajmer are stepping up to help. They work with the forest department to guard nests and set cages to block predators. Community awareness is improving through regular visits and discussions.

The artificial breeding centre is giving the bird a second chance. Preserved eggs, hatched chicks, and support from local people may slowly turn the tide. In the quiet fields of Ajmer, one of India’s rarest birds may find its way back.