One of the few photos of Jerdon’s courser, and probably the world’s best. Photo by: Simon Cook/Birdlife International.
Jerdon’s courser, listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List, is one of India’s rarest and most enigmatic birds. Surviving in a small habitat of scrub-jungle, the bird was thought extinct for 80 years. Given its nocturnal habits and its adept camouflage, such a long disappearance is not surprising. Researchers are working on studying the bird to save it before it vanishes again. Although more funds and support are likely needed to ensure its survival.
To read more about the Jerdon’s courser: Forgotten species: the cryptic Jerdon’s courser .