Vultures have become extinct in the state! This shocking information, along with many similar data, was revealed by the latest state biodiversity report.
The annual report prepared by the Andhra Pradesh State Biodiversity Board and submitted to the Union government suggests that many of the already listed endangered species are on the verge of extinction, including the donkey.
A day before the International Day for Biological Diversity, which has biodiversity and water as the theme for this year, R.Hampaiah, chairman of AP State Biodiversity Board, says that many of the plant, animal and bird species in the state are on the verge of extinction. “We have not come across a single vulture from the state during survey this year. Also, not a single donkey can be found in the capital city,” he points out.
The report prepared by the board in consultation with the departments of fisheries, agriculture, forest, animal husbandry and coastal/marine, has listed the great Indian bustard, an ostrich-like bird (Ardeotis nigriceps) found in Kurnool district, medicinal plant gloriosa superba, decalipus hamiltoni plant also known as Nannari, vinca rosea flower among the most endangered and on the verge of extinction. It has also listed Otter, a semi-aquatic mammal, as one that lived in Hussainsagar lake.
According to the report, house sparrows in the city are being driven away by the huge population of pigeons. “They are losing their habitats as pigeons are driving them away. However, we spotted house sparrows near Shamshabad airport which is a positive sign. We want to encourage people to feed house sparrows and help them recreate their habitat,” Hampaiah says.