Sambalpur: Preparations are underway for the annual census of migratory birds at Odisha’s Hirakud Dam reservoir, set to begin on January 18, 2025. Known for its thriving avian population, the Hirakud Wetland, a designated Ramsar site, has been hosting thousands of migratory birds since October this year.
The Hirakud Wetland has witnessed a steady rise in its avian population over the past decade and a half, with significant growth in the last five years. During last year’s census, more than 3.42 lakh birds representing 112 species were recorded, reinforcing the wetland’s status as a crucial habitat for migratory species.
The reservoir, covering approximately 550 square kilometers, along with the surrounding 700-square-kilometer wetland, spans across Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Bargarh districts. It serves as a seasonal home to a variety of migratory birds, including Gadwalls, Mallards, Grebes, Eurasian Wigeons, Tufted Ducks, Pochards, Whistling Ducks, Sandpipers, Northern Pintails, Northern Shovelers, Gulls, Terns, and Bar-Headed Geese.
These winged visitors travel thousands of kilometers annually to reach Odisha, with Hirakud emerging as a favorite destination among other hotspots in the state.
The Forest Department has divided the expansive reservoir into 21 sectors to facilitate efficient counting. Local communities have been engaged to ensure a smooth process, and adequate security measures have been put in place to protect the migratory birds.
“Hirakud has become one of the most important sites for migratory birds in Odisha,” said Hirakud Wildlife Division DFO Anshu Pragyan Das. “We are fully prepared for the census, starting January 18, and have worked to raise awareness among locals to support this initiative.”