UPSC Prelims 2020 Q74: Environment & Ecology – Biodiversity & Conservation

UPSC Prelims 2020, General Studies Paper I · Environment & Ecology

1. (a) Birds
2. (b) Primates
3. (c) Reptiles
4. (d) Amphibians

Answer: (a) Birds

Explanation

Bird Classification: Specific Species Identity

All four are avian species found in Indian subcontinent:

- Frogmouths: insectivorous nocturnal birds

- Barbets: small woodland birds

- Minivets: colorful sunbirds

- Redstarts: small thrushes

Answer: (a) Birds - All four are birds.

Why each option is right or wrong

• (a) CORRECT. All four - Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet, White-throated redstart - are birds.
• (b) Incorrect. These are birds, not primates.
• (c) Incorrect. These are birds, not reptiles.
• (d) Incorrect. These are birds, not amphibians.

Key point

Indian bird biodiversity: ~1,350 species (endemic + migratory). Frogmouths (nocturnal), Barbets (woodpeckers related), Minivets (colorful), Redstarts (thrush family). High Himalayan/Western Ghats endemism.

Remember

In India's biodiversity, Ceylon frogmouth, Coppersmith barbet, Gray-chinned minivet, and White-throated redstart are all classified as BIRDS - all are avian species found in Indian ecosystems.

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'frogmouth' with frog. Frogmouths are bird family (aerial insectivores), NOT amphibians.
• Assuming names always reflect taxonomy. Many bird names misleading (e.g. 'fly-catcher' not all eat flies).
• Missing that Indian birds are studied extensively - most subspecies have regional names.

Exam tip

Indian bird groups: Raptors (eagles, kites), Warblers (small songbirds), Waterbirds (herons, egrets), Gamebirds (pheasants, quails). Each has distinct ecology + conservation status.

Sources

• Salim Ali - Handbook of the Birds of India and Pakistan
• eBird India - Species Database

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