Project: Creating and testing a methodological framework for the detection of the critically endangered Jerdon’s Courser (Rhinoptilus bitorquatus) using Automated Recording Units.
Description: Our aim is to create a new detection method to survey the Jerdon’s courser (Rhinoptilus bitorquatus). The Jerdon’s courser is a critically endangered bird, endemic to erstwhile State of Andhra Pradesh, India (Birdlife International, 2019).
A lot has been done over the past few years since the rediscovery of the Jerdon’s Courser in 1986. The bird’s habitat has been extensively surveyed through tracking strip and camera trapping methods and the landscape has been mapped for land use change and the threats been comprehensively evaluated. However, despite these attempts, there has been no confirmed record of the Jerdon’s Courser since 2008.
We propose using novel bioacoustic technology by employing Automated Recording Units (ARUs) to monitor the Jerdon’s Courser habitat. We will also determine Jerdon’s Courser detection distances using ARUs as well as gather habitat attenuation data. Using this information, we aim to create an efficient framework for future field research in detecting and conserving this bird. We propose to reach our goal through the following objectives.
  • Firstly, we will test how successful existing algorithms are in detecting Jerdon’s Courser calls by creating training datafiles.
  • Secondly, we will conduct field experiments to ascertain Jerdon’s Courser detection distances and understand call attenuation properties of the habitat.
  • Finally, we will conduct field trials to collect song recordings by deploying ARUs. We will then conduct our analysis by screening these recordings against the training data files created. Thus, we will be able to efficiently process a large sample of recordings at a much faster rate.
The success of using ARUs for monitoring biodiversity has been well researched and proven to be efficient. ARUs also will allow us to sample a larger area simultaneously. Since Jerdon’s courser are cryptic and nocturnal in nature, ARUs programmed to records sounds between dusk to dawn would ensure the continuous monitoring of the bird’s surroundings. Using this technology and a new devised framework for the detection of this Critically Endangered bird, brings us one step closer in taking timely action towards its conservation. By implementing this technology, local Forest Department personnel themselves will be able to install and monitor these ARUs while being actively involved in surveying the Jerdon’s Courser.
Study site: Sri Lankamalleswara Wildlife Sanctuary, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Fundings:  Wildlife Conservation Trust – Small Grants Programme; IISER Tirupati.
Team:
Collaborators:
P. Jeganathan NCF