Kutch Bustard Sanctuary

The Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, also called the Kachchh Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary or Lala–Parjan Sanctuary, is located near Jakhau village in the Kutch district of Gujarat.

Established in 1992, it is one of the smallest protected sanctuaries in India, covering just about 2 square kilometers. The sanctuary was created specifically to conserve the Great Indian Bustard, one of the heaviest flying birds, which is endangered and locally known as "ghorad."

The sanctuary's habitat consists mainly of arid and semi-arid grasslands and scrublands, supporting not only the Great Indian Bustard but also other rare birds like the lesser florican and the houbara bustard, along with various species of migratory birds, wild animals such as wolves, foxes, and chinkaras, and diverse reptiles. The sanctuary's climate is arid, with low and erratic rainfall, and it features three distinct seasons: winter, summer, and monsoon. The bustards prefer open grasslands and feed on agricultural crops, insects, and reptiles.

Despite its small size, the Kutch Bustard Sanctuary is a critical breeding ground for these birds, though its ecological zone extends beyond the fenced area and faces pressures from human and cattle activity.

It holds great importance for wildlife conservation and offers opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation, with the best time to visit typically from November to March when the weather is cooler.

The nearest city is Bhuj, about 110 kilometers away, connected by road, rail, and air. The sanctuary plays a vital role in preserving the fragile ecosystem of the semi-desert region of Kutch and highlights the need for increased conservation efforts to protect the highly endangered Great Indian Bustard.