In a testament to its ecological prowess, Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) has witnessed a remarkable 27% surge in its bird population during the fifth water-bird census. The park now proudly stands among the top five in the country for the presence of both resident and winter-migratory birds, hosting an impressive total of 84,839 feathered guests.
FEATHERED INFLUX: KAZIRANGA’S RECORD-BREAKING BIRD CENSUS
The census, conducted across 115 water bodies within the three divisions of Kaziranga Tiger Reserve, revealed a significant increase from the previous count of 66,776 in 2021-22. This surge not only reflects the biodiversity of the region but also underscores the vital role Kaziranga plays in providing a habitat for a diverse array of bird species.
NEWCOMERS IN THE SKY: GULL-BILLED TERN SPOTTED FOR THE FIRST TIME
An exciting revelation from the census is the first-time presence of the gull-billed tern in KNPTR. This discovery adds a new dimension to the park’s avian landscape, showcasing the dynamic and evolving nature of its ecosystem.
DIVISIONAL HIGHLIGHTS: EASTERN ASSAM, NAGAON, AND BISHWANATH
Breaking down the census data, the Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, predominantly comprising Kaziranga National Park, recorded 37,606 birds. Notable mentions include the Rowmari Beel under Nagaon Wildlife Division, reporting the highest number of birds across all wetlands, and the Bishwanath Wildlife Division, revealing abundance in areas like Dipora and Kutainee Beel.
CONSERVATION MILESTONES: KEY WETLANDS AND THEIR INHABITANTS
Several wetlands adjoining KNPTR played a crucial role in the bird census. The Kaziranga-Hukuma Beel in Biswanath and Joysagar Doloni in Kaliabor stand out with their significant bird populations, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts directed towards these vital habitats.
RARE SIGHTINGS: BAER’S POCHARD, BAIKAL TEAL, AND OTHER ENDANGERED SPECIES
The census also reported sightings of unique, rare, and endangered species, including baer’s pochard, baikal teal, greater scaup, and cotton pygmy goose. This underscores the importance of Kaziranga not only as a local haven for birds but as a global sanctuary for avian biodiversity.
KAZIRANGA’S AVIAN DIVERSITY: A GLOBAL HABITAT FOR WATER BIRDS
With over 200 wetlands and a vast expanse of grasslands interspersed with water bodies, Kaziranga provides a unique habitat for both resident and migratory birds. Recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA), it stands as a testament to global significance in avian conservation.
CITIZEN SCIENCE TRIUMPH: THE MASSIVE COLLABORATIVE EFFORT IN CENSUS
The success of the bird census on January 10 reflects a remarkable collaborative effort. Involving a multitude of bird experts, forest frontline staff, and volunteers from educational institutions and NGOs, this exercise stands out as one of the largest Citizen Science movements in recent years. It reinforces the commitment of various stakeholders to monitor and preserve the rich avian diversity of Kaziranga.
As Kaziranga continues to soar to new heights in avian conservation, the findings from this census spotlight the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding these precious ecosystems for generations to come.
HOW MANY BIRD SPECIES ARE FOUND IN KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK?
Kaziranga National Park boasts a diverse avian population, harbouring more than 480 species of birds that encompass both resident and migratory varieties. Among the noteworthy avian inhabitants are
Majestic Great Indian Hornbill,
Elusive Bengal Florican,
Vibrant Indian Roller,
Stealthy Asian Barred Owlet,
Rare White-winged Duck.
Additionally, the park is a haven for various eagles, herons, storks, and waterfowl, contributing to its rich and varied birdlife.
What makes Kaziranga even more remarkable is its role in the conservation of avian species, including 25 globally threatened and 21 near-threatened species. The park stands as a crucial sanctuary, ensuring the preservation of these diverse bird species and further solidifying its status as a significant hub for avian biodiversity.
WHY IS KAZIRANGA IDENTIFIED AS AN IMPORTANT BIRD AREA?
Kaziranga National Park has achieved global recognition as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by the esteemed Birdlife International Society. This prestigious designation underscores the park’s pivotal role in the conservation of diverse bird populations worldwide.
The park’s appeal lies in its ability to host a myriad of migrating and resident bird species. Kaziranga’s rich avian tapestry includes a vibrant array of feathered inhabitants, contributing to its status as a vital sanctuary for avian life. Among its many marvels, Kaziranga is renowned for being a nesting ground for Spot-billed Pelicans and Adjutants. These majestic birds find a safe haven in the park, adding to the allure of its diverse ecosystem.
Situated on the edge of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, Kaziranga National Park boasts a unique ecological position. The park’s location enhances its biodiversity, making it a crucial hub for various species of birds and contributing to the overall richness of the Eastern Himalayan region.
Kaziranga stands out for being home to almost all species of tall, wet grasslands found in the Brahmaputra floodplains. The expansive grasslands provide a suitable habitat for a multitude of bird species, fostering an environment where both diversity and visibility thrive.
The park’s wetlands harbour rare species of geese and ducks, including the lesser white-fronted goose, ferruginous pochard, and Baer’s pochard. Kaziranga plays a crucial role in the conservation of these endangered waterfowl, further emphasizing its significance on a global scale.
GLOBAL CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE: THE ROLE OF IMPORTANT BIRD AREAS (IBAS)
Important Bird Areas, identified by BirdLife International, serve as global sanctuaries crucial for the conservation of bird populations. With over 13,000 IBAs worldwide, these designated areas play a pivotal role in ensuring the protection and preservation of diverse avian life, contributing to the broader effort of maintaining ecological balance on a global scale.
As Kaziranga continues to be a beacon of avian conservation, its IBA status cements its commitment to safeguarding the world’s feathered treasures and promoting a harmonious coexistence between nature and humanity.
