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GBBC 2026: India Soars to Second in Global Bird Count
20 Feb
Summary
- India ranked second globally in the 2026 Great Backyard Bird Count.
- Andhra Pradesh documented 319 bird species across diverse habitats.
- Campus green spaces serve as vital refuges for urban avian diversity.
The 2026 Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) revealed India's significant avian diversity, securing the nation second place globally with 1087 documented species. This citizen science initiative, coordinated by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, saw robust participation from across the country.
Andhra Pradesh contributed 319 species, highlighting its diverse geographical zones from Rayalaseema's dry areas to north coastal estuaries. While West Bengal led with 519 species, Andhra Pradesh's count underscores its varied terrain and growing involvement of birdwatchers.
Educational campuses are emerging as critical urban refuges. In Visakhapatnam, GITAM (deemed to be university) documented 43 species, demonstrating how campus green pockets support avian biodiversity. Researchers note birds as ecological markers, with deviations in common species like the red-vented bulbul signaling potential environmental changes.
Coastal wetlands in Srikakulam, such as the Vamsadhara estuary and Nagavali river mouth, are recognized for their ecological significance, attracting various winter migrants and coastal waders. Conservationists advocate for these interconnected wetland systems to be recognized as 'Important Bird Areas' to ensure their protection against threats like sand mining and coastal development.
