Indian Skimmer

The Indian Skimmer (Rynchops albicollis), also known as the Indian scissors-bill, is one of the three species that belong to the skimmer genus Rynchops in the family Laridae.

About Indian skimmer:

• Also known as the Indian scissors-bill (Rynchops albicollis), it is one of the three species that belong to the skimmer genus Rynchops in the family Laridae.

Characteristics:

• Length: 40-43 cm
• Coloration: Black upperparts, white forehead, collar, and lower parts
• Bill: Long, thick, deep orange with a yellow tip; longer lower mandible
• Flight Features: White trailing-edge to wings, short forked tail with blackish central feathers
• Non-breeders: Duller with browner upper parts
• Juveniles: Dusky orange bill with a blackish tip, mottled brownish-grey crown and nape, pale buff fringing on scapulars and wing coverts

Habitat:

• Breeds colonially on large, exposed sand-bars and islands.
• Nests on sandy islands or open sand banks, often with other birds like Terns.
• Breeding Season: February to May.

Behavior:

• Feeds on surface-dwelling fish, small crustaceans, and insect larvae.
• Emit nasal kap or kip notes, especially in flight or when disturbed.

Threat:

• Habitat degradation: Fishing, transportation, domestic use, irrigation, and pollution are degrading rivers and lakes, reducing reproductive and foraging success.
• Damming impact: Damming of the Chambal River has led to dropping water levels, providing access to predators and livestock, and affecting the species at the National Chambal Sanctuary.
• Disturbance: Excessive disturbance from various activities is contributing to the decline of the species.
• Predation: House crows and domestic dogs are major predators, causing significant harm to breeding colonies.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List:  Endangered
• IWPAA:  Schedule I

Ref: Source