India's First Coastal Bird Census Marks a Milestone in Jamnagar

In a historic event, Jamnagar's Marine National Park will host India's first coastal and wader bird census from January 3 to 5, 2025. The event, aiming to document bird species, includes expert talks, counting activities, and has drawn interest from bird enthusiasts across the country.

For the first time, India is set to conduct a comprehensive census of coastal and wader birds at the Marine National Park and Marine Sanctuary in Jamnagar. Scheduled from January 3 to January 5, 2025, this significant initiative aims to document avian species in the region known as a paradise for coastal birds.

The three-day event will commence with expert discussions led by forestry and wildlife specialists, followed by bird counting activities on the second day. The final day will feature knowledge-sharing sessions and a closing ceremony. Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera and State Minister Mukeshbhai Patel are spearheading the event under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's guidance.

This program is a collaborative effort between the Forest Department and the Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat (BCSG), a veteran organization dedicated to avian conservation for over 25 years. The Marine National Park, India's inaugural marine park, spans 170 km of coastline and houses diverse marine life, contributing to its status as a critical migratory route of the Central Asian Flyway.

Jamnagar, rich in ecosystems like wetlands, grasslands, and salt pans, hosts over 300 species of local and migratory birds, with more than 50 species of wader birds. Renowned birding hotspots such as Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary consistently attract researchers and tourists, elevating Jamnagar's status in bird conservation.

The initiative highlights the state government's commitment to avian conservation through scientific population data collection, aiding in informed decision-making for conserving bird habitats and ensuring sustainable biodiversity.

(With inputs from agencies.)