Bhitarkanika National Park Commences Annual Monsoon Bird Census

The Bhitarkanika National Park has launched its annual census of monsoon birds. Four teams, including ornithologists and wildlife personnel, will conduct this headcount over five days. Despite delayed arrivals due to erratic rains, a significant number of birds have been spotted. Peripheral wetland sites are also included in the census.

The Bhitarkanika National Park authorities have commenced their annual monsoon bird census. This headcount began on Monday and involves four teams consisting of ornithologists and wildlife personnel who will carry out the survey over five days.

Rain-induced delays did not deter the impressive congregation of birds seen along the park's mangrove areas. Park officials reported that major bird congregation zones both inside and outside the park, including peripheral wetlands like Satabhaya and Barunei, will be surveyed.

Lack of human interference, favorable climatic conditions, cool breezes, and the surrounding river system attract these avian species. Over a dozen types of local residential birds, such as open bill storks, little cormorants, and various types of egrets, gather in the national park's heronries for nesting and breeding annually.

(With inputs from agencies.)