Rare Bird Returns to Jaisalmer After Two Decades
Birdwatchers across India are celebrating an exciting discovery. The extremely rare Sind Woodpecker has appeared in Jaisalmer after nearly twenty years. People spotted the bird in the Murar–Dhanana border area. This sighting has generated tremendous excitement among birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and ornithologists nationwide.
A Truly Rare Species
Birdwatcher Divesh Kumar Saini explained the significance. He said the Sind Woodpecker ranks among the rarest woodpecker species in the entire world. It is known for its striking black-and-white feathers and a distinctive red crown on its head.
Saini described its traditional habitat. The bird largely lives in the dry forests and scrublands of western Rajasthan. It also inhabits adjoining regions of Pakistan. Habitat degradation and various environmental pressures have made sightings increasingly uncommon over the years.
A Remarkable Rediscovery
Another birdwatcher called the observation a remarkable rediscovery. The long absence of confirmed sightings highlights two key points. It underscores the bird's extreme scarcity. It also points to its naturally shy and elusive behavior.
This single sighting has renewed strong interest in studying the biodiversity of the Thar Desert region. Researchers are now paying more attention to lesser-known avian species that call this arid landscape home.
Expert Insights on the Sighting
Dr. Sumit Dookia, a wildlife specialist with the ERDS Foundation, provided detailed context. He confirmed that the Sind Woodpecker inhabits exceptionally arid regions of Jaisalmer. The species is relatively more prevalent on the Pakistani side of the border.
Dr. Dookia revealed a startling fact. There are only five to ten documented sightings of this species ever recorded in India. The recent observation occurred during a special survey.
Teams were conducting a Great Indian Bustard habitat assessment. They worked with exclusive authorization from the Border Security Force (BSF). During this survey, observers spotted four to five distinct specimens.
The birds were in sparse scrubland and sandy terrain. This area lies beyond the Dhanana check post. The vegetation there is predominantly Jaal and Phog plants. A BSF official independently confirmed the sighting in a region along the sensitive Indo-Pakistan border.
Growing Interest and Necessary Precautions
Following the exciting news, activity in the area has increased significantly. Birdwatchers, wildlife researchers, and photographers are now visiting the Sam Dhanana and Murar areas in growing numbers.
Local authorities have issued an important reminder. All visitors must obtain formal permission from the Border Security Force before entering the area. This rule applies whether people are coming for birdwatching, research, or photography.
National Attention and Tourism Boost
Bird expert Parth Jagani noted how the story gained wider traction. The development captured national attention after the wildlife platform Sanctuary Asia highlighted the bird's rarity on its social media channels.
Another expert, Summer Singh Sanvta, discussed the positive economic impact. He believes the sighting will significantly boost tourism in Jaisalmer. It is expected to attract nature lovers and eco-tourists from various parts of India and even from abroad.
Sanvta pointed to a clear trend. Guided birdwatching tours are seeing a surge in interest. This growing niche provides valuable livelihood opportunities for local guides. It also supports the broader tourism-based economy of the Jaisalmer region.
The return of the Sind Woodpecker is more than just a wildlife event. It represents hope for conservation and a new chapter for desert tourism.
