India, June 16 -- 73 Great Indian Bustards, also known as 'Godawan,' were spotted in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer district during the annual waterhole survey, a method used for wildlife census. The survey began at midnight on June 11, coinciding with Vaishakh Purnima (the full moon night), and continued uninterrupted for 24 hours until June 12.

Vaishakh Purnima is selected for the census as it typically falls during peak summer, when temperatures in Rajasthan soar above 45degC. The intense heat forces wildlife to visit waterholes at least once every 24 hours, increasing the chances of sightings. Additionally, the full moon provides natural light throughout the night, enabling easier observation without artificial lighting-making it the most eff...