Hirakud Reservoir Bird Census Kicks Off to Monitor Winter Visitors
The annual census of migratory birds at Hirakud Reservoir started on Sunday. Forest officials aim to gauge the reported increase in avian numbers this winter. The massive 700-square-kilometer reservoir attracts birds from across India and abroad.
Extensive Coverage Across Multiple Districts
The census operation spans the Hirakud wildlife division. This includes areas in Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, and Bargarh districts. It also covers adjoining regions of Chhattisgarh.
Divisional Forest Officer Anshupragya Das explained the setup. "We have formed twenty-one sectors for this census," Das said. "The exercise will cover nearly 550 square kilometers, from Hirakud Dam up to the Chhattisgarh border."
Teams and Logistics for the Count
Around seventy forest officials, bird experts, and enumerators are engaged in the count. The teams also include fifteen college students this year. A total of thirty-two teams are participating, using thirty-two boats.
These teams set out from nine different locations at 6 AM. The census will continue until 5 PM. All participants have received binoculars and life jackets for safety.
Annual Migration to Hirakud
Every year from November, migratory birds travel thousands of kilometers to reach Hirakud Reservoir. They return to their native places by March. The wildlife division has implemented various protection measures.
These measures include security arrangements and awareness initiatives. The development of bird villages is part of these conservation efforts.
Diverse Bird Species at the Reservoir
Several Indian bird species are commonly seen at Hirakud. These include egrets, herons, cormorants, and lapwings.
Winter brings migratory birds from distant regions:
- Pintail, shoveler, teal, and pochard from Siberia and Central Asia
- Bar-headed geese from Mongolia, Tibet, and Central Asia
- Godwits, sandpipers, and snipes from Europe and Russia
- Brown-headed gulls and whiskered terns from Europe and Central Asia
Expert Involvement and Previous Counts
Fisheries experts with experience in bird studies are also involved in the census. Records show interesting trends from previous years.
Last year, officials recorded 377,732 migratory birds belonging to 122 species. In 2024, the count stood at 342,345 birds of 113 species. The 2023 census recorded 316,575 birds of 109 species.
The Divisional Forest Officer expressed hope for this year. "We expect the number of birds to increase further," Das stated.
Student Participation and Experiences
Meanwhile, Sonam Sahu, a Plus-Two student, is participating for the first time. She shared her excitement about the experience.
"We feel fortunate to be part of this team," Sahu said. "Seeing so many birds in the reservoir was very exciting. We observed many new species from close quarters. The learning experience from bird experts has been valuable."
The census represents a significant effort in wildlife monitoring and conservation. It brings together professionals, experts, and students in a collaborative exercise. The data collected will help understand migration patterns and bird populations at this important reservoir.
