Ardeotis nigriceps
Great Indian Bustard
BirdBest Season: Jan–Dec
Best locations
3
Expert creators
0
Field Reports (12 months)
0
(c) Radheshyam Pemani Bishnoi, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Radheshyam Pemani Bishnoi
About this species
The critically endangered Great Indian Bustard is one of the heaviest flying birds in the world. With fewer than 150 individuals remaining, sightings are rare and precious. The Desert National Park in Rajasthan and the grasslands of Kutch in Gujarat are the last strongholds of this magnificent bird. Early morning drives across arid scrublands offer the best chances. Learn about the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. Conservation status, last remaining habitats in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Behavior
Extremely shy and wary, spending nearly all its time on the ground. Breeding males inflate a distinctive throat pouch and perform a booming display to attract females.
Diet
Insects, seeds, and small reptiles, foraged while walking slowly through open grassland.
Field Reports
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Best locations for Great Indian Bustard
Reserves and landscapes where our photographers reliably encounter this species, with links to place-specific guides.
Wildlife Creators Specialising in Great Indian Bustard
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When and Where to Photograph Great Indian Bustard
Desert National Park's core zone with a specialist local guide is essentially the last reliable place to search. Approach slowly by vehicle with binoculars — this is one of the rarest birds on the planet and cannot tolerate disturbance on foot.
Plan field days around Jan–Dec: light is often strongest at dawn and dusk, when many mammals and birds are most active. Work with a naturalist who knows local movement patterns — they will position you ethically while improving your odds of a encounter in Desert National Park.