Balodabazar, (Chhattisgarh) Dec 26 (NationPress) The mornings in Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary will soon resonate not just with the sounds of nature but also with the meticulous counting of bird species.

For the first time, Barnawapara is set to host a national-level bird survey - “Bird Survey 2026” - from January 16 to 18, 2026. This event marks a pivotal moment in Chhattisgarh’s commitment to bird conservation, citizen science, and sustainable eco-tourism.

This initiative will transcend a mere survey; it signifies the dawn of a new conservation story for the region, where birds will share the spotlight with significant wildlife like leopards and deer.

Officials have reported an overwhelming interest in Bird Survey 2026, receiving 192 applications nationwide, showcasing Barnawapara’s rising prominence among birdwatchers and researchers.

In a thorough selection process, 80 participants from 12 states have been chosen to join the survey.

Notably, 36 participants hail from Chhattisgarh, reflecting a growing enthusiasm for birdwatching and ecological studies in the region. The rest of the participants come from various ecological areas across India, including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Bihar, Gujarat, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala - contributing a wealth of experience to the survey.

DFO Ganveer Dhammshil explained to the media, “Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary embodies the biodiversity of central Chhattisgarh. Its unique mix of sal forests, grasslands, and water bodies creates ideal habitats for birds. The inaugural Bird Survey 2026 is a crucial step toward scientifically documenting avian diversity, aiding future management plans and conservation strategies, especially for species in decline. This initiative will promote community engagement and establish Barnawapara as a rising national birding hotspot.”

Previously, the sanctuary has hosted biodiversity events like butterfly meets, but Bird Survey 2026 marks its first formal, large-scale effort focused exclusively on birds.

The enthusiastic response indicates that Barnawapara is becoming a vital birding location on India’s conservation landscape.

While often recognized for larger mammals, Barnawapara is emerging as a sanctuary for numerous bird species. Its diverse terrains, including sal forests, mixed forests, wetlands, and seasonal water bodies, foster a rich habitat for resident and migratory birds.

Waterbirds flock to the reservoirs, grassland species flourish in open fields, and rare forest birds find refuge in the dense woods, making Barnawapara a comprehensive and varied birding destination.

The objectives of Bird Survey 2026 extend beyond merely cataloging species. Key goals include scientifically documenting avian diversity and identifying rare, threatened, or declining species.

Additionally, establishing a robust data foundation for conservation strategies and connecting local data to global platforms are paramount. Engaging local communities and youth in conservation efforts is equally crucial.

Rooted in Citizen Science, the survey invites experts and nature enthusiasts to work collaboratively towards long-term conservation objectives.

Participants will engage in rigorous field-based learning, including bird identification by sight, call, and behaviour, as well as data collection and analysis. They will also upload their findings to the eBird platform, emphasizing practical conservation principles.

This survey is organized with the collaboration of Birds & Wildlife of Chhattisgarh, with technical support from eBird. Ensuring that the data gathered meets international standards is a priority.

Each observation recorded will contribute to the global eBird database, providing valuable data for international researchers, conservation organizations, and policymakers, which will aid in future forest management, biodiversity studies, and climate change research.

Experts assert that initiatives like this are vital for fostering a birding culture, linking environmental education with conservation awareness and economic opportunities.

In regions such as Barnawapara, increased birding activity can create job opportunities for local nature guides, boost the growth of homestays and eco-resorts, and inspire youth to pursue careers in nature-based fields.

This survey is a significant step toward positioning Barnawapara as a leading birding destination in central India.

With numerous bird species facing population declines, timely and accurate data is essential. Bird Survey 2026 will play a crucial role in identifying vulnerable species.

Furthermore, the survey will assist in monitoring population trends and provide critical inputs for future conservation efforts. Long-term ecological planning will emerge from the insights gathered.