Among Global capitals, Delhi ranked second in global biodiversity
Context : Core Message
The article highlights Delhi’s exceptional bird diversity, supported by its varied habitats and location on the Central Asian Flyway, and underscores the importance of biodiversity monitoring through the Delhi Bird Atlas.
Prelims-Oriented Pointers
- The Delhi Bird Atlas has documented exceptional avian diversity in Delhi.
- The study places Delhi among the most bird-diverse capital cities in the world.
- The atlas recorded hundreds of bird species across different habitats in the city.
- Delhi’s biodiversity is supported by:
- Aravalli landscape
- Yamuna floodplains
- Wetlands
- Forests
- Parks and urban green spaces
- Delhi lies along the Central Asian Flyway (CAF).
- The Central Asian Flyway is an important migratory route for numerous bird species.
- The atlas provides a baseline for monitoring bird populations and habitat quality.
- The Central Asian Flyway connects Arctic and Central Asian breeding grounds with wintering areas in South Asia.
- The Yamuna floodplains and associated wetlands are important habitats for resident and migratory birds.
- The Aravalli Range is among the world’s oldest mountain systems.
- Bird atlases are used for biodiversity mapping and ecological monitoring.
Mains-Relevant Information
- Urban Biodiversity
- The article highlights Delhi’s high bird diversity despite rapid urbanisation.
- Multiple natural and urban habitats contribute to the city’s ecological richness.
- Importance of Flyways
- Delhi’s location on the Central Asian Flyway supports migratory bird populations.
- Flyways play a key role in seasonal bird migration and conservation.
- Role of Wetlands and Green Spaces
- Yamuna floodplains and wetlands provide critical bird habitats
- Urban green spaces contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation.
- Conservation and Monitoring
- The Delhi Bird Atlas serves as a scientific baseline for future monitoring.
- Bird atlases support conservation planning and ecological assessment.
