J&K: Asian Waterbird Census Scheduled for 25 Wetlands in Kashmir
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Synopsis
The Asian Waterbird Census 2025 will take place on February 19 in Kashmir, covering 25 wetlands. This initiative is essential for assessing migratory bird populations and wetland health, with significant participation from local volunteers and experts.
Key Takeaways
- The census will occur on February 19, 2025.
- 25 wetlands will be included, with 4 Ramsar sites.
- Training for volunteers included bird identification and data collection.
- 1.2 million migratory birds recorded in recent years.
- Wetland health is crucial for ecological balance.
Srinagar, Feb 18 (NationPress) The Department of Wildlife Protection, in partnership with the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA), is preparing to conduct the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2025 on February 19, as confirmed by an official on Tuesday.
This annual event is vital for estimating the population of migratory birds visiting the wetlands of Kashmir and for evaluating the ecological condition of these essential habitats.
Prior to the census, an orientation session took place on Tuesday where volunteers were trained in bird identification, population estimation techniques, and data collection methods.
The training attracted participation from scholars from SKUAST, students from various colleges, and representatives from noted NGOs including Wildlife Conservation Fund, SRDE, Wildlife SOS, WRCF, and SEEDS. Additionally, officials from the Forest Territorial Department, Forest Protection Force, Wildlife Department, and WUCMA, along with seasoned birdwatchers and conservationists, were involved in the training,” stated the official.
The Regional Wildlife Warden discussed the migratory routes of birds arriving in Kashmir’s wetlands between November and March.
He mentioned the Central Asian Flyway, a significant migration path for birds migrating from Russia, Siberia, Europe, and China, emphasizing the critical role of Kashmir’s wetlands as vital stopover points.
Furthermore, the Regional Wildlife Warden of Kashmir underscored that the census is a pivotal scientific endeavor, as bird migration serves as a crucial indicator of wetland health.
He also highlighted that over the previous two years, more than 1.2 million migratory birds have been tracked in Kashmir’s wetlands, reiterating their global ecological significance.
The Wildlife Warden for Wetlands Kashmir and Coordinator of Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA) expressed satisfaction regarding the water levels in most of Kashmir’s major wetlands, which are currently adequate to support migratory birds.
He pointed out that interventions like the installation of regulatory gates at Hokersar, in collaboration with the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, have greatly enhanced water retention in the Hokersar wetland.
He further noted that the water levels in Hokersar are now at their highest in a decade, ensuring a more stable and suitable environment for migratory birds.
The Asian Waterbird Census 2025 will encompass 25 key wetlands, including four Ramsar sites—Hokersar, Haigam, Shallabugh, and Wular Lake—each serving as a critical habitat for thousands of migratory birds.
The census will be executed under stringent supervision by trained experts from the Wildlife Department, WUCMA, Forest Protection Force, and the Forest Department. Teams of specialists and volunteers will systematically log bird species, count populations, and record behavioral patterns to ensure precise data collection.
Post-field survey, avian specialists will scrutinize the gathered data, compiling a detailed report on species diversity, population trends, and overall wetland health.
Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Wular Conservation Authority expressed gratitude to all participants, asserting that the census is intrinsically linked to the long-term conservation of Kashmir’s wetlands, which are essential for maintaining ecological balance and supporting biodiversity.
