Daily Current Affairs : 27-November-2024
A remarkable event in the animal migration world has taken place, as a Siberian Demoiselle crane, affectionately named Sukpak, has set a new record by flying an extraordinary 3,676 kilometers to Khichan, Rajasthan. This long journey surpassed the previous migratory distance of 2,800 kilometers, showcasing the bird’s incredible endurance and navigational abilities.
About the Siberian Demoiselle Crane
The Siberian Demoiselle crane, scientifically known as Anthropoides virgo (or Grus virgo), is a migratory bird that breeds in the temperate regions of Central Asia, Mongolia, and Northeast China. These cranes are famous for their long-distance travel, covering vast distances between their breeding and wintering grounds.
Key Features:
- Breeding Range: Central Asia, Mongolia, and parts of Northeast China.
- Wintering Range: They primarily migrate to western India, particularly in Gujarat and Rajasthan, where they spend the colder months.
- Migration Path: Traditionally, these birds fly through the Himalayan valleys, but some, like Sukpak, take a more unique route through Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
- Cultural Significance: In Indian culture, the Siberian Demoiselle crane is called “koonj” or “kurjaa.” It holds symbolic importance, especially in the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan.
- IUCN Status: The species is classified as “Least Concern” due to stable populations in the wild.
Sukpak’s Historic Journey
Sukpak’s journey is extraordinary for several reasons. Not only did it cover a distance of 3,676 kilometers, but it also followed a unique reverse migration route, which is different from the traditional paths these cranes take. This long-distance migration highlights the resilience and adaptability of the species.
Conservation and Protection Efforts
India plays a vital role in the conservation of these majestic birds. Khichan, a small village in Rajasthan, is home to India’s first Demoiselle crane conservation reserve. Each year, around 20,000 cranes visit Khichan during their winter migration, making it a crucial stopover on their long journey. The efforts made in Khichan have significantly contributed to the conservation of these birds, ensuring their survival and the preservation of their migration routes.
Important Points:
- Sukpak’s Migratory Record: A Siberian Demoiselle crane named Sukpak flew 3,676 km to Khichan, Rajasthan, setting a new migratory record, surpassing the previous distance of 2,800 km.
- Scientific Name: The Siberian Demoiselle crane is scientifically known as Anthropoides virgo (or Grus virgo).
- Breeding Range: These cranes breed in Central Asia, Mongolia, and Northeast China.
- Wintering Range: They migrate to western India, especially Gujarat and Rajasthan, during winter.
- Traditional Migration Path: They typically migrate through the Himalayan valleys.
- Sukpak’s Unique Route: Sukpak took a reverse route, traveling through Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
- Cultural Significance: In Indian culture, these cranes are known as “koonj” or “kurjaa” and hold symbolic importance in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
- IUCN Status: Siberian Demoiselle cranes are listed as “Least Concern” due to stable populations.
- Conservation Efforts: Khichan in Rajasthan is India’s first Demoiselle crane conservation reserve, attracting around 20,000 cranes annually during their winter migration.
- Role of Khichan: Khichan plays a crucial role in protecting the Siberian Demoiselle crane, supporting their migration and helping conserve their population.
Why In News
A Siberian Demoiselle crane, nicknamed Sukpak, has set a new migratory record by flying an astounding 3,676 km to Khichan in Rajasthan, surpassing the previous distance of 2,800 km and demonstrating the crane’s remarkable endurance and navigational skills.
MCQs about Siberian Demoiselle Crane Sets a New Migratory Record
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What is the new migratory distance set by Sukpak, the Siberian Demoiselle crane?
A. 2,800 km
B. 3,000 km
C. 3,676 km
D. 4,000 km
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Where do Siberian Demoiselle cranes typically spend the winter?
A. Gujarat and Rajasthan, India
B. Central Asia
C. Mongolia
D. Northeast China
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What is the significance of Khichan in Rajasthan for Siberian Demoiselle cranes?
A. It is their breeding ground.
B. It is a migratory stopover and conservation reserve.
C. It is where they are first sighted during migration.
D. It is a region where they are traditionally hunted.
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How does Sukpak’s migratory route differ from the traditional path of Siberian Demoiselle cranes?
A. Sukpak took a shorter route through Mongolia.
B. Sukpak followed a reverse migration route through several countries.
C. Sukpak did not migrate at all.
D. Sukpak flew directly across the Himalayas.
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