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Karnataka's Birds Vanish: A Winter Migration Crisis
29 Dec
Summary
- Bird sightings have drastically decreased in Karnataka.
- Habitat disturbance and land-use changes are key causes.
- Conservation efforts include habitat creation and advocacy.
Researchers are deeply concerned by shifts in Karnataka's migratory bird patterns, suggesting the region is losing its status as a dependable winter sanctuary. Bird arrivals, once a consistent phenomenon from October to March, have significantly decreased.
Reports indicate a 50% to 60% decline in migratory species over the last two decades. Birds dependent on grasslands and open habitats have seen dramatic drops, with some, like the Indian courser, disappearing entirely from their traditional areas. Experts cite habitat disturbance, changing land use, and food scarcity as major contributors.
Conservationists are advocating for immediate action, including identifying and protecting key bird areas, safeguarding lakes, and establishing more reserves. Individual actions like creating small, natural habitat patches are also encouraged to bolster local bird populations and support broader conservation initiatives.
