Delhi may soon have its own state bird, animal

The country's showpiece capital may soon have its own state bird, animal, tree and flower.  

Delhi Government is in the process of selecting species from a set of wildlife options provided by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).  

"There are two species each in four categories being considered by the government. All of them are symbols of our city and generally recognisable to a good number of people here," INTACH Chairman S K Mishra told PTI.  

Among birds, the INTACH has suggested the colourful and magnificent Indian Peafowl (Pavo Cristatus) and purple seabird, a bird with shining purple feathers and is commonly seen in the greenbelts of the city.  

Commonly found antelopes also known as Neelgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) which are considered sacred by some Indians and blackbuck popularly known as 'Kala Hiran' are the species in the animal category.  

Black bucks are included in the list of endangered species in India as well as Nepal. Two major factors that have contributed to their declining population are poaching and habitat destruction.

Recognised for their innumerable medicinal properties, Neem and Pilkhan have been endorsed in the tree category.  

The government is considering a state flower from among the all-time favourite and colourful rose and lotus, which already enjoys the national status. While roses are widely cultivated flowers in Delhi, lotus is considered sacred in Indian culture.  

"Accordance of the status of state symbol to the highly vulnerable species will help in making people aware about their importance thus ensuring their preservation and conservation," said Samar Singh, Senior advisor to INTACH.  

He said that given the need for specific attention to their bio-diversity, most of the states have already declared their state bird, animal, flower and tree.