Kaziranga Birds: Raptors & Storks Thrive

Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in Assam has revealed a significant avian diversity, with a recent survey identifying 30 species of raptors and six species of storks. Conducted between late February and early March by a 10-member team from Gauhati University and the park authority, the survey documented 217 individual raptors and 266 individual storks across the park's three administrative zones.

The park's landscape is crucial for several bird species. It is recognized as a global stronghold for the Pallas's fish eagle, with the highest number of breeding sites worldwide. Additionally, an international study confirmed that a tagged Pallas's fish eagle from Mongolia visits Kaziranga annually to breed.

Among the recorded species, the Asian openbill was the most abundant stork, while the greater adjutant stork was the rarest. For raptors, the Himalayan griffon vulture was most frequently sighted. Other notable species found in Kaziranga include various vultures, eagles, and owls, underscoring the park's vital role as a critical habitat.