In a first-ever experiment of its kind, the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden has attained a landmark achievement by successfully hatching a pair of Greater Adjutant chicks in an artificial platform. The entire process was carried out within the zoo premises.

"Thishas happened for the first time in a Zoo. Before this we don't have any reportthat this endangered bird has bred in any zoo or any captivity," said anofficial of the Assam State Zoo.

Thestorks, known as 'hargilla' in the Assamese language, were shunned beforebecause of their smelly droppings, noisy calls and messy eating habits. ButPurnima Devi Barman led a campaign to rehabilitate the species and itsreputation in recent years.

"Whenwe tried to replicate the idea of an artificial platform from my project, manyexperts commented that it won't be possible. But the support of Zoo team was soencouraging and I was confident that we will be successful soon," Purnimarecently tweeted.