TAG: GS 3: ECOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENT
THE CONTEXT: The recently concluded two-day synchronised bird census in wetlands and bird sanctuaries in Villupuram district, organized by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department in collaboration with the Universal Eco Foundation, revealed a decline in the number of wetland birds compared to the previous year.
EXPLANATION:
- The census, conducted on January 27 and 28, covered 18 wetlands, including Oussudu and Kazhuveli bird sanctuaries.
Census Methodology and Participants:
- Point Count and Line Transect Method:
- The census employed the Point Count and Line Transect method, a widely accepted approach in ornithology, conducted by more than 12 teams of volunteers, bird watchers, and ornithologists.
- The survey took place from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., capturing a snapshot of the bird population during these crucial hours.
- Technical Support and Collaboration:
- Technical support for the census was provided by the Universal Eco Foundation, a Puducherry-based biodiversity conservation organization.
- Collaboration between the Forest Department and conservation organizations highlights the importance of concerted efforts in preserving biodiversity.
Findings from Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary:
- Decline in Numbers:
- A notable decline was observed in the bird population at Kazhuveli bird sanctuary, with 3,909 birds of 90 species recorded this year, compared to over 21,000 birds of 150 species in the previous year.
- Glossy Ibis (779), Northern pintail (512), and Eurasian Coot (295) were among the most abundant species.
- Rare Bird Sightings:
- Despite the decline, the census recorded sightings of rare birds such as the Knob-billed duck and Black Bittern in Kazhuveli.
- The identification of rare species underscores the ecological significance of the area.
Wetland Census Across Villupuram District:
- Oussudu Sanctuary:
- Oussudu sanctuary recorded 2,080 birds of 64 species during the census.
- District-Wide Numbers:
- Kallakurichi district reported 7,205 birds of 124 species.
- Cuddalore district documented 14,414 birds of 118 species.
Conservation Implications and Future Phases:
- Concerns Over Decline:
- The decline in bird numbers raises concerns about the health of wetland ecosystems in Villupuram district.
- Conservation efforts may need to be intensified to address potential threats to these habitats.
- Upcoming Census Phase:
- The second phase of the census is scheduled for March 2 and 3, focusing on terrestrial birds.
- This multi-phase approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the avian diversity across different habitats.
Conclusion:
- The wetland bird census in Villupuram district serves as a crucial annual assessment, revealing shifts in bird populations and highlighting areas that may require conservation attention.
- The collaborative efforts of volunteers, the Forest Department, and conservation organizations contribute to the ongoing monitoring and preservation of the region’s rich biodiversity.
- The identified decline emphasizes the need for sustained conservation measures to protect these vital ecosystems.