Indian Skimmer: Endangered Riverine Bird

Category: Environment & Biodiversity

  • Scientific name: Rynchops albicollis.
  • A distinctive riverine bird found mainly in the Indian subcontinent.
  • Characterised by its unique laterally compressed lower mandible, which is longer than the upper mandible.
  • It feeds by flying low over water and skimming the surface with its bill.
  • Associated with large rivers, sandbanks, wetlands and estuarine habitats.
  • IUCN status: Endangered.
  • Major threats include habitat degradation, disturbance, river modification and loss of sandbars.
  • UPSC Focus: Endangered birds, river ecosystems, wetlands, IUCN.