A significant decline in the variety of bird species at Kolkata's famed Rabindra Sarobar lake has sparked serious concern among the city's bird-watching community and environmental experts. The drop is being directly linked to the deterioration of the lake's ecosystem, including the loss of trees on its islands and the removal of crucial undergrowth.
Tracking the Decline in Migratory Visitors
Last year, observers recorded 72 migratory bird species out of a total of 115 species at Rabindra Sarobar. This number marks a clear decrease from the 79 migratory species spotted in 2020. In the years between, the count has consistently fluctuated between 70 and 75. Besides these seasonal visitors, this vital green space in south Kolkata provides a permanent home to 43 resident bird species.
While the pandemic-induced lockdown in 0 led to a temporary surge in sightings due to reduced human activity, birders now point to a more permanent threat. The death of trees on the lake's islands has critically impacted the habitat, making it less attractive for certain migratory species seeking shelter and food.
Beautification vs. Biodiversity: A Critical Conflict
Experts argue that recent maintenance and beautification projects are harming the very environment they aim to improve. Sudip Ghosh, a birder and technology professional, explained that the problem is twofold. "It's not just the large birds that need trees for resting and roosting. Foraging birds have been severely affected by the aggressive cleaning of undergrowth and bushes," he stated, emphasizing that those managing the lake must adopt more ecologically sensitive practices.
This sentiment is echoed by Mitali Deb, an avid birder and Medical Superintendent at Jadavpur University. Having watched birds at the Sarobar for eight years, she attributes the recent dip directly to the beautification work. "I have seen more Himalayan birds here than in the Himalayas itself," Deb remarked, expressing a desire for more natural greenery instead of the concrete constructions gradually appearing within the park.
A Silver Lining: Record Sightings and a Growing Community
Despite the concerning trend, the lake remains a treasure trove for ornithologists. The 2023 survey documented a first-time sighting of the crested goshawk, a bird typically found in Southeast Asia. Other notable migratory species recorded include:
- Lesser racket-tailed drongo
- Black-naped monarch
- Dark-sided flycatcher
- Grey wagtail
- Square-tailed drongo-cuckoo
Paradoxically, as bird numbers have dipped, the community of bird watchers has exploded. From a mere handful when birding activities began in 2012, the lake now regularly attracts between 50 to 70 enthusiasts on a good day. "A rare sighting can draw birders from across India," said Debarshi Duttagupta, highlighting the site's national importance. He noted that sightings are now meticulously logged on platforms like eBird, and the Facebook group 'Biodiversity of Rabindra Sarobar' boasts over 10,000 global members.
This growing interest brings a new responsibility. Bird enthusiast Tirthankar Roychowdhury urges fellow birders to look beyond photography and actively participate in conservation. "Some are already leading the way with plantation drives and organizing nature walks for the public and children. We need many more to join this effort," he added, calling for collective action to protect this invaluable urban oasis at any cost.
