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CHONGKHU

2nd February, 2024

CHONGKHU

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Picture Courtesy: https://ebird.org/taiwan/species/bcnher/L2319930

Context: The discovery of a ringed juvenile black-crowned night heron, locally known as 'Chongkhu,' in Imphal, Manipur, which sustained injuries and later died, highlights the importance of international collaboration in wildlife conservation.

About Chongkhu

  • Black-crowned night heron, locally known as ‘Chongkhu’ in Manipur, is a medium-sized species belonging to the heron family, found in various parts of the world, including Asia, North and South America, and Europe.
  • They prefer freshwater wetlands like swamps, marshes, and rice paddies.
  • They are mainly nocturnal birds, feeding on fish, frogs, insects, and other small animals. They are solitary hunters, using their sharp beaks to spear prey in shallow water.
  • Some populations of black-crowned night herons are migratory, travelling long distances between breeding and wintering grounds. The specific heron in the article likely migrated from China to India.
  • The global population of black-crowned night herons is considered stable, but they face threats like habitat loss, pollution, and hunting.
  • IUCN status: Black-crowned night herons are classified as Least Concern due to their large and stable population, wide distribution, and adaptability to various habitats.

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. What is "Chongkhu" in the news recently?

A) Newly discovered plant species

B) Migratory bird found in Manipur

C) Endangered marine species

D) Rare fungus discovered in the Himalayas

Answer: B

Explanation:

The black-crowned night heron, also known as "Chongkhu" in Manipur, is a migratory bird species with a stable population and Least Concern status according to the IUCN.