Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, Wildlife sanctuary in Maharashtra, India
This protected area spreads across flat grassland interspersed with scrub, stretching between gentle hills and dry plains in Maharashtra. The open landscape is shaped by low vegetation and scattered acacia trees, with narrow trails winding through the terrain.
The reserve came into being in the early 1980s after populations of the great bustard had declined sharply across India. Local communities took part in early conservation efforts that aimed to keep the open land free from agriculture and livestock grazing.
The name of the reserve refers to a rare large bird that nests in open grassland and is most visible during early morning hours. People from nearby villages know this area as a haven for migratory species that move between the grassland patches and scrub zones.
Access follows dirt tracks that branch off from small towns nearby and lead to observation points across the reserve. A visit works best during cooler months when birds are more active and easier to spot in the open terrain.
Electrical lines have been buried underground to prevent collisions with the large birds, which struggle to detect tall obstacles while in flight. Rangers also monitor nesting sites and protect clutches from stray animals and predators.
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