Pathanamthitta Wetlands Face Alarming Waterbird Decline

Wetlands in Pathanamthitta have seen a significant reduction in waterbird numbers, according to the latest annual survey conducted on January 10 and 11. This year's census recorded 3,766 waterbirds from 50 species, a notable drop compared to the 6,170 documented in the previous year's survey. The decrease raises concerns about the ecological health of these vital habitats.

Conducted across ten major wetlands, including Karingali Puncha and Aranmula-Nalkalikal Wetland, the survey involved 58 participants like birdwatchers, forest officials, and students. They also documented 6,656 birds from 128 species in total. The findings suggest that shifting agricultural patterns and evolving climate conditions may be impacting the region's delicate wetland ecosystems.

The census identified 21 long-distance migratory species, such as Garganey and Greater Spotted Eagle, alongside short-distance migrants. This initiative, a collaboration between Pathanamthitta Birders and the Forest department, is part of the wider Asian Waterbird Census aimed at monitoring waterbird populations across southeast Asia.