The Lesser Florican (Sypheotides indicus) — locally known as Kharmor (खरमोर) — one of India’s most iconic and critically endangered grassland birds, is facing an alarming population decline.
From 4,374 individuals recorded in 1982, the population has plummeted to around 200 in 2025, marking a sharp 95% decline over four decades. This fall highlights the urgent need to protect India’s vanishing grasslands and strengthen conservation measures.
What Is the Lesser Florican?
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Scientific Name: Sypheotides indicus
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Common Name: Lesser Florican
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Local Name: Kharmor (खरमोर)
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IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
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Habitat: Semi-arid grasslands of India
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Breeding Season: July to September (monsoon)
The Lesser Florican is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and is best known for its spectacular breeding display — males leap dramatically into the air to attract females. This unique courtship behavior makes it one of India’s most charismatic bird species.
Population Decline: From 4,374 to 200
| Year | Estimated Population | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1982 | 4,374 | Baseline count from national survey |
| 2000 | ~1,000 | Grassland loss begins accelerating |
| 2010 | ~500 | Protected areas still limited |
| 2020 | ~350 | Severe habitat fragmentation |
| 2025 | ~200 | Critically low population |
Key Habitat Regions of Lesser Florican
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Madhya Pradesh – Sailana Wildlife Sanctuary (Ratlam), Sardarpur Sanctuary
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Rajasthan – Shokaliya, Ajmer District
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Gujarat – Velavadar Blackbuck National Park (breeding population)
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Maharashtra – Isolated grassland patches
These regions once supported thousands of breeding individuals, but now only scattered populations remain.
Threats to the Lesser Florican
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Grassland Conversion: Agriculture and infrastructure encroachment
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Urbanization: Fragmentation of breeding habitats
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Intensive Farming: Reduced insect prey and nesting space
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Predation & Disturbance: Unregulated grazing and free-ranging dogs
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Climate Variability: Affecting breeding and monsoon patterns
Conservation Measures and Initiatives
Despite the decline, ongoing efforts offer hope:
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Species Recovery Plan by MoEFCC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change)
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Habitat Restoration in Velavadar and Sailana regions
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Community-based Conservation with local pastoral communities
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Use of Tracking Devices for monitoring movements and breeding success
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Florican Conservation Breeding Programs (pilot projects in select sanctuaries)
Why Protecting Grasslands Matters
The Lesser Florican is not just a bird — it’s a flagship species for India’s grasslands. Its survival ensures:
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Protection of unique ecosystems and endemic flora and fauna.
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Maintenance of natural grazing cycles important to rural livelihoods.
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Conservation of other endangered species, such as the Great Indian Bustard.
Government & NGO Involvement
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MoEFCC & Wildlife Institute of India (WII) are leading population monitoring.
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Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) has been conducting surveys since the 1980s.
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State Forest Departments of Rajasthan, MP, and Gujarat have initiated special protection zones.
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Local NGOs and communities are engaged in grassland restoration projects.
What Needs to Be Done Urgently
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Recognize and protect grasslands as critical ecosystems.
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Expand and connect protected areas.
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Strengthen community stewardship and eco-tourism models.
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Intensify breeding programs and anti-poaching measures.
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Continue long-term population monitoring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Lesser Florican?
The Lesser Florican (Sypheotides indicus) is a critically endangered bird species endemic to India’s grasslands, famous for its unique leaping display during breeding.
Why is the Lesser Florican endangered?
Due to large-scale grassland loss, agricultural expansion, and habitat fragmentation, its population has dropped drastically.
Where can Lesser Floricans still be found?
Small populations remain in Gujarat (Velavadar), Rajasthan (Ajmer, Shokaliya), and Madhya Pradesh (Sailana and Sardarpur).
How many Lesser Floricans are left in 2025?
Around 200 individuals, down from 4,374 in 1982.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Q: Is the Lesser Florican protected by law in India?
A: Yes. It is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Q: What is the breeding season of the Lesser Florican?
A: Monsoon season (July–September).
Q: Why is grassland conservation important?
A: It protects multiple species, supports rural communities, and maintains ecological balance.
Conclusion
The Lesser Florican’s population crash from thousands to just a few hundred is a stark reminder of how fragile India’s grassland ecosystems are. This bird is more than a species — it is a symbol of India’s forgotten habitats.
Protecting the Lesser Florican means restoring and valuing grasslands, empowering local communities, and reimagining conservation beyond forests.
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