Tiger of the Sky Pariah Kite

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About the Author Date of Birth: 1st June, 1948,Bhiwani (Haryana) India. Education: B.Sc. (Biology) Govt. College, Hissar (Haryana); M.Sc. (Zoology) and Ph.D. (Wildlife) from University of Rajasthan, Jaipur (India). Worked as lecturer before joining National Zoological Park, New Delhi in 1973 and working in it as Curator (Ed.) at present. Participated in national and international seminars and workshops. Trained in the interperative techniques applicable to Zoological Parks & National Parks from U.S.A. and in the management of National Parks & Wildlife reserves from Australia.

Introduction The pariah kite popularly known as 'Cheel' in Hindustani is one of the most common bird species associated with mankind. The reasons for my taking up the study on this species were three fold. The first factor which drew me towards this species was its ability to control rodent populations. Secondly, I was interested in its scavenging habits which serves an important function of clearing the environment of waste products and lastly its presence near airports is considered flying hazard for air traffic all over the world.

Preface Pariah Kites, are among the most skilled and spectacular of all birds of prey. Their livelihood depends on the ability to kill and the abundance of their prey. The fortunes of the birds of prey have changed throughout the world due to habitat destruction, use of pesticides and urbanisation etc. A recent survey carried out throughout Delhi in 2003 revealed that there has been a steady decline in the population of the pariah kites as compared to the population that existed in 1973-76, when the initial study was done by me.

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