Kendrapara: Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapara district has witnessed a remarkable increase in the population of nesting birds during this year’s monsoon season. A recent bird census revealed a total of 130,123 birds across ten species, marking an increase of 6,265 birds compared to last year’s count of 123,867.
The census, conducted by Forest officials, recorded birds in 27,282 nests perched on 1,300 mangrove trees within the park. The survey used the direct count method to monitor bird populations across key areas, including the Mathadia, Balida, Laxmiprasaddia, and Durgaprasaddia heronries.
Sudarshan Gopinath Yadav, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Bhitarkanika National Park, expressed optimism about the growing bird population, calling it a positive indicator for ongoing bird conservation efforts in the region. “The increase in the number of birds visiting Bhitarkanika is a good sign for bird conservation programmes in the state,” Yadav said.
Bhitarkanika’s rich mangrove ecosystem, abundant fish in the rivers and creeks, and its distance from human habitation make it an ideal breeding ground for birds. The park offers a unique spectacle of avian life as birds build nests, incubate eggs, feed fledglings, and protect their young from predators and the elements. Yadav noted that observing these birds engaging in such activities is a mesmerizing experience for visitors and a testament to the park’s thriving biodiversity.
The census results reinforce the importance of protecting and preserving Bhitarkanika’s unique habitat, which continues to attract a growing number of birds each year, contributing to Odisha’s conservation efforts.