Breeding biology of Great Thick-knee (Esacus recurvirostris) in fresh water reservoir near Wankaner of Morbi District, Gujarat

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Year : 2025 | Volume :15 | Issue : 01 | Page : –
    By

    Ramde Bhatiya,

  • Vibhuti Raval,

  1. Student, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Noble University, Junagadh, Gujarat, India
  2. Assistant Professor and Head, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Noble University, Junagadh, Gujarat, India

Abstract

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The Great Thick-knee (Esacus recurvirostris) is a captivating bird species that has garnered significant attention from researchers due to its unique breeding behaviors and adaptations. This large wader, characterized by its distinctive upturned bill and striking black and white facial pattern, is a local breeder in humid southern Asia. The breeding season of the Great Thick-knee typically commences in February and extends through July, with peak laying activity occurring in March and April. During this period, pairs establish and defend territories, often selecting dry, open areas near water bodies such as reservoirs, riverbeds, and lakeshores. The nest is just a shallow depression in the bare ground, without any complex structure. A clutch usually consists of two large, cryptically colored eggs, which are incubated by both parents for approximately 28 days. Parental care extends beyond incubation. Both parents actively participate in brooding and guarding the chicks, shielding them from potential predators and harsh weather conditions. The chicks are precocial, which means they are quite developed when they hatch and can move around on their own. Both parents feed the chicks by placing food directly into their mouths. Around 40 days after hatching, the chicks fledge, becoming independent and able to find food on their own. The breeding habits of the Great Thick-knee depend on several factors, such as habitat quality, food supply, and the risk of predators. Human activities, such as habitat loss and disturbance, can pose significant threats to their breeding success. However, based on available research, it is generally quite low at 0.2887 and 0.343 for two different sites of studies. Understanding the intricacies of their breeding ecology is crucial for implementing effective conservation measures to protect this remarkable species.

 

Keywords: Breeding biology, hatching success, nesting success, Great Thick-knee, breeding

[This article belongs to Research & Reviews : A Journal of Biotechnology (rrjobt)]

How to cite this article:
Ramde Bhatiya, Vibhuti Raval. Breeding biology of Great Thick-knee (Esacus recurvirostris) in fresh water reservoir near Wankaner of Morbi District, Gujarat. Research & Reviews : A Journal of Biotechnology. 2025; 15(01):-.
How to cite this URL:
Ramde Bhatiya, Vibhuti Raval. Breeding biology of Great Thick-knee (Esacus recurvirostris) in fresh water reservoir near Wankaner of Morbi District, Gujarat. Research & Reviews : A Journal of Biotechnology. 2025; 15(01):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjobt/article=2025/view=0

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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 15
Issue 01
Received 15/01/2025
Accepted 28/01/2025
Published 01/02/2025
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