Jerdon’s courser habitat analysis using Remote sensing

Jerdon’s courser (Cursorius bitorquatus) considered as lost bird is found in Sri Lankamalleswaram Sanctuary, Cuddapah District, Andhra Pradesh. It is listed in Red data book as endangered bird. Analysis of satellite imagery of 1989, 1996, 1998 and ground information have revealed an improvement of Jerdon courser’s habitat after declaration of area as sanctuary in 1988. Large open grounds show a decrease, white small open grounds surrounded by scrub plants offering protection and food cover increase. Analysis of satellite imagery shows core niche covering 4 x 3 km area and larger area of sanctuary (7.3 x 13.1 km) having various land cover classes. Comparison of satellite imagery from 1989 to 1998 shows degradation of larger area of sanctuary where birds are not seen.