Why has the number of bar-headed geese declined at Pong Dam?

The number of bar-headed geese has declined due to a prolonged dry spell and changing weather patterns, leading to less rainfall and delayed snowfall.

What was the total bird count at Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary this year?

A total of 1,24,344 water-dependent birds comprising 115 species were recorded during the Annual Water Bird Census 2026 at Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary.

Which bird species have shown an increase in numbers at Pong Dam?

The number of Eurasian Coot and Northern Pintail have increased at Pong Dam this year compared to last year's count.

Home / Environment / Pong Dam Bird Count Drops Amid Dry Spell

Pong Dam Bird Count Drops Amid Dry Spell

3 Feb

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Summary

Bar-headed geese saw a sharp decline in numbers this year.
Prolonged dry spell and changing weather patterns are cited as causes.
Total water-dependent birds recorded were 1,24,344 of 115 species.

Pong Dam Bird Count Drops Amid Dry Spell

The annual Water Bird Census 2026 at Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary has recorded a notable decline in bird numbers compared to previous years. This year's count identified 1,24,344 water-dependent birds from 115 species. A significant decrease was observed in the population of bar-headed geese, a flagship species, with numbers falling from 90,959 last year to 62,293 individuals this year.

Wildlife officials attribute this reduction primarily to a prolonged dry spell and delayed snowfall impacting vegetation and water availability. While recent snowfall has seen some increase in arriving birds, the overall trend highlights environmental challenges. However, some species, like the Eurasian Coot and Northern Pintail, have shown an increase in their populations.

The Pong Dam Lake, a crucial Ramsar site, serves as a vital wintering ground for migratory birds from Central Asia, Siberia, Russia, and the Trans-Himalayan region. Despite the recent decline, the sanctuary continues to provide essential habitats for these species.