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Hirakud Sees Bird Nesting Boom!
14 Jun
Summary
- Summer bird nesting surged, with 19 species recorded, nearly double last year's count.
- Conservation efforts, including clearing encroachments, led to increased nesting success.
- Water levels remain steady, providing food and safe nesting conditions for birds.
The Hirakud wetland, adjacent to the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, has reported a remarkable rise in summer bird nesting activity this year. Wildlife officials documented 19 bird species nesting in the area, a substantial increase from the 10 species observed last year. Nesting has been observed across 28 islands within the reservoir.
These conservation successes are credited to dedicated efforts, including the removal of encroachments by fishermen from critical nesting areas along the Hirakud shoreline. This focus on protecting both nests and the ecological conditions necessary for successful breeding has been paramount.
Key species recorded for nesting include terns, lapwings, and skimmers. The preservation of reed beds, grasses, and shrubs, alongside restrictions on vegetation cutting during the breeding season, has provided essential habitats. Stable water levels in the Hirakud dam reservoir offer ample feeding grounds for adult birds and their chicks, with minimal human disturbance due to enforced 'no-entry' zones for fishing.
In addition to summer nesting, the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary observed a significant number of migratory birds during the past winter. The Hirakud reservoir hosted 4.2 lakh migratory birds of 128 species, an increase from the previous year. Several new species were identified, highlighting the site's growing importance for avian populations.
Preventing pollution has also been a vital conservation measure. Over 100 local villages have been involved in sensitization programs, with efforts made to discourage open dumping and promote waste management to sustain aquatic life crucial for the birds.
