Hargila Bird (Greater Adjutant Stork)

Latest News

The Hargila Bird, locally known as Hargila, has recently gained attention for the conservation efforts of thousands of rural women in Assam, popularly known as the “Hargila Army”. Their community-led efforts focus on protecting nesting sites and increasing awareness about this threatened bird.

About Hargila Bird

The Hargila, or Greater Adjutant Stork (Leptoptilos dubius), is a large and distinctive member of the stork family. It is primarily associated with wetlands and aquatic ecosystems.

Habitat and Distribution

The bird inhabits wetlands, shallow lakes, drying lake beds and freshwater-flooded forests. Its present-day distribution is highly restricted, with populations occurring in Assam and Bihar in India, as well as Cambodia.

Hargilas are generally seen singly or in small groups while searching for food in shallow water. They usually breed during winter, forming nesting colonies that may also contain other large waterbirds.

Food and Feeding Behaviour

The Hargila is an omnivorous bird and is primarily a scavenger. It also feeds on frogs, large insects, birds, reptiles and rodents, making it an important component of wetland ecosystems.

Major Threats

The major threats to the Hargila include loss and degradation of nesting and feeding habitats, particularly due to wetland drainage, habitat destruction and pollution. Disturbance and destruction of nesting trees can severely affect breeding populations.

Conservation Status

The Hargila is classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Under India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, it is listed in Schedule IV.

Hargila Army: Community Conservation

The Hargila Army, comprising primarily rural women in Assam, represents an important example of community-based conservation. Women volunteers have worked to protect nesting trees, rescue chicks, create awareness and encourage local communities to coexist with the bird.