What is the latest bird diversity count at Sultanpur National Park?

In the 2026 Asian Waterbird Census, Sultanpur National Park recorded its highest waterbird species diversity in four years, with 69 species counted.

Why are total bird numbers lower at Sultanpur despite increased species diversity?

Total bird numbers are lower due to delayed migration patterns caused by climate variability and increased human disturbance within the wetland.

What actions are being taken to protect migratory birds at Sultanpur?

Efforts include tighter visitor regulations and enhanced habitat protection to ensure the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats.

Home / Environment / Sultanpur Park Sees Record Bird Diversity Amidst Challenges

Sultanpur Park Sees Record Bird Diversity Amidst Challenges

9 Jan

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Summary

Sultanpur Park recorded 69 bird species, highest in four years.
Total bird numbers remain below pre-2024 levels due to delays.
Human disturbance and late winter impact migratory bird counts.

Sultanpur Park Sees Record Bird Diversity Amidst Challenges

Sultanpur National Park celebrated a significant milestone in its recent Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2026, recording the highest waterbird species diversity in four years. The census, conducted on January 6, 2026, identified 69 distinct species and 3,955 individual waterbirds, a notable increase from the 48 species counted in 2025.

However, the overall number of birds recorded was less than pre-2024 figures. This trend is attributed to delayed migration patterns and growing human interference within the Ramsar wetland. Forest and wildlife officials explained that prolonged monsoons improved water levels but a late winter disrupted migratory arrivals, leading to dispersed bird populations across various habitats.

Conservationists are concerned about increasing disturbances from visitors and photographers near the wetland's edge, warning that unchecked tourism could further reduce bird numbers. This data is crucial for the Union environment ministry's conservation plans along the Central Asian Flyway, highlighting the need for stricter visitor regulations and habitat protection at Sultanpur.