A three-day bird census is set to commence in the lush mangrove forests of Bhitarkanika National Park from August 30 to September 1.
The initiative, led by the Rajnagar Division of the Forest Department, will focus on colonial nesting birds across four major nesting sites: Matha Dia, Laxmiprasad Dia, Durgaprasad Dia, and Bali Dia.
Divisional Forest Officer (Wildlife) Varadaraj Gaonkar emphasized the specialized nature of the survey, which aims to estimate nesting patterns, population density, and habitat conditions. “This is a targeted census focusing on colonial nesting birds. Three sites fall under the Kanika Range and one under the Rajnagar Range,” he stated.
Bhitarkanika, known for its rich biodiversity and thriving avian population, plays a crucial role in bird conservation efforts in eastern India. The census will provide vital data to support habitat preservation and inform future wildlife management strategies.
