GIB may be included in global list of top 10 migratory species at UN conference: Env Min

The critically endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB) is likely to be included in the global list of top 10 migratory species facing extinction under the UNEP's Convention for Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) of Wild Animals, the environment ministry announced on Monday.

The step would be taken at the 13th conference of parties (COP 13) to be hosted by India from February 15-22, which will enable range countries to protect and conserve the Great Indian Bustard.

The birds are dying at the rate of 15 per cent annually due to collision with high-voltage power lines. Their present population is nearly 150, reduced by 75 per cent in the last 30 years.

"In this COP, India is proposing three species for inclusion in the CMS Appendix and for concerted action. The three species are Asiatic Elephant, Great Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican. In addition to these, India is also proposing Gangetic Dolphin and Irrawaddy Dolphins for concerted action," a ministry official said.

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