Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapara district has reported a notable increase in its bird population during the 2023 monsoon season, according to the latest bird census conducted by forest officials. The park, known for its rich biodiversity and extensive mangrove ecosystems, recorded a total of 1,30,123 birds from ten different species, marking a rise of 6,265 birds compared to last year’s count of 1,23,867.
This growth in bird population reflects a positive trend for bird conservation efforts in the region. Forest officials highlighted that 27,282 nests were spotted on 1,300 mangrove trees within the park, emphasizing the area’s suitability as a breeding ground. The census was conducted using the direct count method, covering key heronries in areas like Mathadia, Laxmiprasaddia, Durgaprasaddia, and Balidia in and around the Bhitarkanika National Park.
Sudarshan Gopinath Yadav, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Bhitarkanika, expressed optimism over the findings, noting that the increase in bird population is a positive sign for ongoing conservation programs in Odisha. The park’s natural resources, such as abundant fish in its rivers and creeks, combined with its distance from human habitation, create an ideal and safe environment for the birds to nest and breed.
The rise in bird numbers highlights the significance of Bhitarkanika National Park as one of the key bird habitats in India, offering favorable conditions for migratory and resident species. This surge reflects the park’s growing importance in Odisha’s ecological landscape, further supporting the state’s bird conservation initiatives.
Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapara district has reported a notable increase in its bird population during the 2023 monsoon season, according to the latest bird census conducted by forest officials. The park, known for its rich biodiversity and extensive mangrove ecosystems, recorded a total of 1,30,123 birds from ten different species, marking a rise of 6,265 birds compared to last year’s count of 1,23,867.
This growth in bird population reflects a positive trend for bird conservation efforts in the region. Forest officials highlighted that 27,282 nests were spotted on 1,300 mangrove trees within the park, emphasizing the area’s suitability as a breeding ground. The census was conducted using the direct count method, covering key heronries in areas like Mathadia, Laxmiprasaddia, Durgaprasaddia, and Balidia in and around the Bhitarkanika National Park.
Sudarshan Gopinath Yadav, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Bhitarkanika, expressed optimism over the findings, noting that the increase in bird population is a positive sign for ongoing conservation programs in Odisha. The park’s natural resources, such as abundant fish in its rivers and creeks, combined with its distance from human habitation, create an ideal and safe environment for the birds to nest and breed.
The rise in bird numbers highlights the significance of Bhitarkanika National Park as one of the key bird habitats in India, offering favorable conditions for migratory and resident species. This surge reflects the park’s growing importance in Odisha’s ecological landscape, further supporting the state’s bird conservation initiatives.
