Bhubaneswar, 18 January (H.S.): The annual bird census has commenced in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, with forest officials reporting sightings of over 150 shoveler ducks along with several gadwalls on the first day of the exercise.

Conducted every year, the bird count aims to monitor avian populations and evaluate the ecological health of the region.

This year’s survey is being carried out across more than 100 water bodies within the Similipal Sanctuary, as well as in the surrounding forest areas of Baripada, Karanjia, and Rairangpur. The census is being conducted at 46 locations spread across seven forest ranges.

Approximately 75 forest officials have been deployed for the operation, which began early in the morning at 6 a.m.

Divisional Forest Officer (DCF) Gobinda Chandra Biswal said, “The counting started early today, and our teams are stationed at key sites including Betnoti, Udala, Deuli, and Bangriposi. In addition to shovelers, we have recorded the presence of gadwalls and other migratory bird species.”

Officials noted that the annual census plays a crucial role in assessing biodiversity and ensuring effective wildlife conservation in the Similipal region.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda