Annual bird census commences across Odisha’s wetlands
Bhubaneswar(By Abhishek Mohanty):
The annual bird census has begun across major wetlands and wildlife habitats of Odisha, including Chilika Lake, Hirakud Reservoir, Similipal, and Bhitarkanika. The exercise is being carried out by teams comprising forest officials, scientists, and trained volunteers using binoculars, cameras, GPS devices, and boats.
At Chilika Lake, 22 teams with around 130 members have been deployed across the Satapada, Tangi, Balugaon, Rambha, and Nuapada sectors. Last year, the census recorded over 11.27 lakh birds, and officials anticipate a higher count this year due to the prevailing harsh winter conditions, which are favorable for migratory arrivals.
Similarly, the census at Hirakud Reservoir is being conducted across 21 sectors with the help of 32 boats.
A total of 92 participants, including 70 experts, are involved in the exercise. Notably, trained college students are taking part in the census for the first time.
In Mayurbhanj district, bird counting covered Similipal and its adjoining forest ranges, covering more than 100 sites such as reservoirs and wetlands.
In Kendrapara district, 18 teams surveyed migratory birds in the Bhitarkanika region, particularly across the Mathadiya, Lakshmiprasadiya, Durgaprasadiya, and Balidiya areas.
Officials from the Forest Department and the Odisha Biodiversity Board stated that the census will provide updated data on bird species diversity and population trends. Preliminary observations indicate an increase in migratory bird arrivals this year.
