Bar-Tailed Godwit: Record-Breaking Migratory Bird Journey

Why in the news?

The Bar-Tailed Godwit gained attention for its non-stop 13,500 km migration from Alaska to Tasmania, showcasing its endurance and resilience, while raising awareness about its “Near Threatened” status on the IUCN Red List.

Bar-Tailed Godwit: Record-Breaking Migratory Bird Journey

Introduction to the Bar-Tailed Godwit

  • The Bar-Tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica) is a remarkable migratory bird known for its incredible endurance.
  • It holds the world record for the longest non-stop flight, traveling 13,500 km from Alaska to Tasmania in just 11 days.
  • During its journey, the bird flies at an average speed of over 50 km/h, showcasing extraordinary resilience.

Physical Characteristics and Habitat

  • Bar-Tailed Godwits are large waders, with females being larger than males.
  • They feature mottled brown plumage, barred tails, and a long, slightly upturned bill.
  • These Arctic breeders are found across Europe, Asia, Alaska, and parts of India.
  • In India, they winter in states like Gujarat, Kerala, and West Bengal.

Conservation Status and Significance

  • The Bar-Tailed Godwit is listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and environmental challenges.
  • It serves as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in nature, highlighting the importance of preserving migratory bird habitats.
  • Protecting this species is vital to maintaining ecological balance and conserving biodiversity globally.

Bar-Tailed Godwit: Key Details in Brief

  • Scientific Name: Limosa lapponica.
  • Family: Scolopacidae.
  • Physical Characteristics: Large wader with long legs, an upturned bill, and distinctive red breeding plumage.
  • Breeding Range: Arctic coasts and tundra from Scandinavia to Alaska.
  • Wintering Range: Coasts of Australia and New Zealand.
  • Migration: Subspecies Limosa lapponica baueri undertake the longest nonstop flight (29,000 km round trip) from Alaska to New Zealand.
  • Breeding Behavior: Breeds at 2–4 years; incubation shared by sexes (20–21 days).
  • Diet: Bristle worms, bivalves, crustaceans, shellfish, and invertebrates in pastures.
  • Sexual Dimorphism: Females larger with longer bills than males.
  • Conservation Status: Near Threatened; population declining.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times