Jaisalmer: The extremely rare Sind Woodpecker (Dendrocopos assimilis) was sighted in Murar–Dhanana border area of Jaisalmer, after nearly two decades, generating excitement among birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and ornithologists across the country.Birdwatcher Divesh Kumar Saini said the Sind Woodpecker is one of the rarest woodpecker species in the world and is known for its black-and-white plumage and distinctive red crown. He said its habitat was largely confined to dry forests and scrublands of western Rajasthan and adjoining regions of Pakistan, and that habitat degradation and environmental pressures made sightings increasingly rare.Another birdwatcher described the observation in Murar Dhanana area as a remarkable rediscovery, saying the long absence of confirmed sightings underlined both the bird’s scarcity and its shy nature. The sighting renewed interest in studying biodiversity in the Thar Desert region, particularly lesser-known avian species.Dr Sumit Dookia, a wildlife specialist affiliated with ERDS Foundation, said the Sind Woodpecker inhabited exceptionally arid regions of Jaisalmer and was relatively prevalent in Pakistan. He said there were only 5-10 documented sightings of the species in India, and that during a recent Great Indian Bustard habitat assessment, conducted with exclusive authorisation from the Border Security Force, 4-5 distinct specimens were observed in sparse scrubland and sandy terrain amid Jaal and Phog predominant vegetation beyond Dhanana check post.A BSF official said the Sind Woodpecker was spotted in a region along the Indo-Pakistan border.Following the sighting, birdwatchers, wildlife researchers and photographers began visiting Sam Dhanana and Murar areas in increasing numbers. Authorities said visitors must obtain permission from the Border Security Force before entering the area for birdwatching or photography.Bird expert Parth Jagani said the development gained wider attention after wildlife platform Sanctuary Asia highlighted the bird’s rarity on its social media channels. Bird expert Summer Singh Sanvta said the sighting would have a positive impact on tourism in Jaisalmer, attracting nature lovers and eco-tourists from different parts of India and abroad. He said guided birdwatching tours are seeing growing interest, providing livelihood opportunities for local guides and supporting the region’s tourism-based economy.
