Home / Environment / Ujjani Reservoir Sees Fewer Birds in 2026 Census
Ujjani Reservoir Sees Fewer Birds in 2026 Census
4 Feb
Summary
- 6,604 birds of 137 species recorded at Ujjani reservoir in Feb 2026.
- Lower numbers attributed to elevated water levels reducing shallow habitats.
- Vulnerable species like greater spotted eagle were sighted.
A recent waterbird census on February 1, 2026, at the Ujjani reservoir revealed a total of 6,604 birds from 137 species. This count is lower than the 7,467 birds of 122 species recorded in the census on January 26, 2025.
The Wildlife Research and Conservation Society, in collaboration with the Solapur forest division, conducted the census across nine sites. Researchers pointed to higher water levels this year as the main reason for the decrease, as these conditions limit the shallow-water areas favored by many migratory waterbirds.
Despite the reduced numbers, the census documented vulnerable species such as the greater spotted eagle and river tern. Near-threatened species, including the black-tailed godwit and pallid harrier, were also observed, alongside a significant flock of approximately 480 Indian cormorants.
Jayant Kulkarni of WRCS emphasized the importance of this annual monitoring for long-term wetland health and for contributing data to the Asian Waterbird Census. He anticipates bird numbers may rise as water levels recede, aiding conservation efforts for this vital wetland.
