Yamuna Floodplains Awash With Avian Wonders

The Yamuna floodplains will be the starting point for this year's Asian Waterbird Count, an initiative beginning this Saturday. This extensive survey, a collaboration between Wetlands International and eBird, is designed to systematically document waterbird populations. The exercise is slated to run until at least January 18th, with potential extensions if necessary, and will later expand to other wetlands in the National Capital Region.

Over the upcoming weekend, four dedicated teams will meticulously cover a 20-kilometer segment of the Yamuna floodplains, extending from Cullak Pur to the Wazirabad Barrage. This expanded survey aims for better coverage compared to previous years. The census is crucial for establishing a long-term baseline for ornithological records in an area that has historically lacked structured scientific surveys.

This annual census is vital for tracking changes in waterbird populations and providing essential feedback for conservation strategies. By generating a database for the Yamuna and other wetlands, the count will help monitor wetland health and species trends over time, ultimately supporting crucial conservation efforts and fostering public interest in these important ecosystems.