How many birds and species were recorded at Ujjani reservoir in the February 2026 census?

The February 1, 2026 census recorded a total of 6,604 birds belonging to 137 species at the Ujjani reservoir.

Why were bird numbers lower at Ujjani reservoir in 2026 compared to 2025?

Bird numbers were lower in 2026 mainly because elevated water levels reduced the shallow-water habitats preferred by migratory waterbirds.

What vulnerable bird species were spotted during the Ujjani reservoir census?

Vulnerable species such as the greater spotted eagle and river tern, along with near-threatened species like the black-tailed godwit and pallid harrier, were spotted.

Home / Environment / Ujjani Reservoir Sees Fewer Birds in 2026 Census

Ujjani Reservoir Sees Fewer Birds in 2026 Census

4 Feb

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Summary

6,604 birds of 137 species recorded at Ujjani reservoir in Feb 2026.
Lower numbers attributed to elevated water levels reducing shallow habitats.
Vulnerable species like greater spotted eagle were sighted.

Ujjani Reservoir Sees Fewer Birds in 2026 Census

A recent waterbird census on February 1, 2026, at the Ujjani reservoir revealed a total of 6,604 birds from 137 species. This count is lower than the 7,467 birds of 122 species recorded in the census on January 26, 2025.

The Wildlife Research and Conservation Society, in collaboration with the Solapur forest division, conducted the census across nine sites. Researchers pointed to higher water levels this year as the main reason for the decrease, as these conditions limit the shallow-water areas favored by many migratory waterbirds.

Despite the reduced numbers, the census documented vulnerable species such as the greater spotted eagle and river tern. Near-threatened species, including the black-tailed godwit and pallid harrier, were also observed, alongside a significant flock of approximately 480 Indian cormorants.