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Citizen Scientists Needed for Waterbird Census
19 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Annual census launched in 1987 tracks waterbirds and wetland health.
- Citizen science program supports conservation of migratory birds.
- Surveys will occur between January 1st and 3rd weeks, data accepted December 2025-February 2026.
India is urging birdwatchers and the public to participate in its yearly migratory waterbird census, a citizen science program initiated in 1987. This extensive effort focuses on monitoring population trends of waterbirds and evaluating the health of wetland ecosystems, as highlighted by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS).
The initiative is supported by Bird Count India and the National Biodiversity Authority, encouraging local committees to engage in the survey. Wetlands are recognized as crucial ecosystems supporting biodiversity and providing essential services. The census implementation depends on a network of coordinators, birders, researchers, students, and forest staff.
Surveys are scheduled from the first to the third week of January, with data submission accepted from December 2025 through February 2026. Recognized under India's Central Asian Flyway action plan, the data gathered aids national conservation planning, Ramsar site designations, and international agreements like the Ramsar Convention.
