First Baby Great Indian Bustard Chick Born via Artificial Insemination

October 25, 2024

An important achievement occurred in conservation efforts in India. A baby great Indian bustard was born through artificial insemination (AI) at the Sudasari Great Indian Bustard Breeding Centre in Rajasthan. This marks India as the first country to successfully breed this critically endangered species using AI. The event has generated excitement and hope for the survival of the great Indian bustard.

Importance of the Great Indian Bustard

The great Indian bustard is a large bird native to the Indian subcontinent. It is critically endangered, with a population decline due to habitat loss, hunting, and human interference. Conservationists have been working tirelessly to protect and increase its numbers. The successful birth of a chick through AI is a pivotal step in these efforts.

Artificial Insemination Process

Artificial insemination is a reproductive technology that allows for the breeding of animals without natural mating. This method involves collecting sperm from a male and using it to fertilize a female’s egg. In this case, a male bustard named Suda was trained for the process. He was placed in front of an artificial female to stimulate sperm production. This training took about eight months.

Steps Leading to the Birth

1. Training the Male: The male great Indian bustard, Suda, underwent training to prepare for artificial mating.
Sperm Collection: Once trained, Suda’s sperm was collected for use in insemination.
Insemination of the Female: The collected sperm was then used to artificially inseminate a female bustard named Tony on September 20, 2024.
Egg Laying: Tony laid an egg on September 24, which was closely monitored by scientists.
Hatching: The egg hatched on October 16, resulting in a healthy chick.

Conservation Significance

This breakthrough in breeding techniques is crucial for the future of the great Indian bustard. It allows for the creation of a sperm bank, which can help increase the population. The chick’s successful birth brings renewed hope to conservationists who are dedicated to protecting this iconic species.

Current Population Status

Now, the population of great Indian bustards in Jaisalmer is estimated at 173. Of these, 128 are in the wild, while 45 are housed in breeding centers. The Desert National Park in Jaisalmer serves as a critical sanctuary, providing suitable conditions for breeding.

The success of this AI method opens doors for further conservation strategies. Plans are in place to continue using AI to aid in the breeding of great Indian bustards. The chick born from this process is expected to be named after the AI method once it matures.

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