Home / Environment / Bhindawas Wetland Faces Habitat Loss, Bird Numbers Drop
Bhindawas Wetland Faces Habitat Loss, Bird Numbers Drop
19 Jan
Summary
- Bhindawas wetland recorded 9,483 waterbirds of 52 species.
- Habitat stress and delayed migration linked to climate change noted.
- Three globally threatened species were among those counted.
The Bhindawas Ramsar wetland recently hosted the Asian Waterbird Census on January 17, 2026, documenting 9,483 waterbirds across 52 species. This count revealed significant habitat stress, with large areas drying up and invasive water hyacinth covering water surfaces. Ecologists observed a comparatively lower winter migration this year, raising concerns about climate change impacts on the wetland.
Despite these challenges, the census identified 27 resident and 27 migratory species, including three globally threatened species: Greater Spotted Eagle, Common Pochard, and Ferruginous Duck. Prominent migratory birds like Northern Shoveler and Gadwall were sighted, alongside resident species such as Indian Spot-billed Duck.
Conservation efforts are ongoing, with the wildlife department conducting regular monitoring and surveillance. The data gathered from scientific counts like the AWC is crucial for planning effective conservation interventions and informing international bodies on wetland health and biodiversity.
