Distribution, habitat shift, and conservation needs of Jerdon’s Babbler (Chrysomma altirostre): A study of a vulnerable grassland specialist

Grassland ecosystems are vital for global biodiversity but are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, agricultural expansion, urbanization, and climate change. Jerdon’s Babbler (Chrysomma altirostre), a vulnerable grassland specialist, serves as a model species to assess the impacts of habitat degradation and fragmentation. This study analysed historical and current distributions, revealing a significant contraction from 326,263 km² to 173,071 km², representing a 47% reduction in the species’ historical range. The overlap between historical and current ranges was limited to 71,623 km², while 101,448 km² of new areas were identified as potential habitat gain, indicating possible range shifts. The centroids of the distributions of the three subspecies shifted significantly: Indian and Saharo-Sindian subspecies moved northeast by 361 km and 444 km, respectively, while the Burmese subspecies shifted 490 km south. Populations in the Indo-Bangladesh region remain uncertain due to a lack of recent records. These findings underscore extensive habitat loss, reduced connectivity, and the persistence of fragmented populations primarily within protected areas. Conservation priorities include grassland restoration, habitat connectivity enhancement, and mitigating disturbances such as unauthorized playback and seasonal fires. While Jerdon’s Babbler exhibits adaptability to degraded habitats, its long-term viability remains uncertain without targeted interventions. This study highlights the necessity of expanded conservation efforts to safeguard populations beyond protected zones and to preserve this species as an indicator of grassland ecosystem health.