Assam: Kaziranga National Park Abuzz with Fifth Migratory Bird Census

ASSAM: Amidst a colorful Conservation Festival, Assam's Kaziranga National Park is conducting its fifth Migratory Bird Census. The park is currently abuzz with activity as experts and visitors alike come together to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The inception of a comprehensive bird count across 100 wetlands was marked by the inauguration of the Bird Conservation Festival, which brought together numerous enthusiasts and was overseen by Assam Environment and Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary.

The lush surroundings of Kaziranga National Park in Assam are brimming with movement as the fifth census pertaining to migratory birds departs. Starting on January 9, this two-day occurrence matches up with a vivacious celebration that acknowledges bird variety and conservationism, attracting numerous counter takers, scholars along with zealous volunteers intrigued by studying avian life.

The inauguration of the Bird Conservation Festival at the UNESCO World Heritage Site marked Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary's initiation of an extensive bird count. The count encompasses over 100 identified wetlands situated within Eastern Assam, Nagaon and Biswanath wildlife divisions in Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve (KNPTR).

Sonali Ghosh, the Field Director, explained the census process and highlighted its combination of scientific precision with efforts towards environmental conservation outreach. The main goal is to educate college students and forest staff on bird identification while fostering a stronger bond with nature. Wetlands that exceed 10 hectares within a one-kilometer radius from KNPTR's boundary are thoroughly examined for complete coverage. Forest frontliners investigate core areas whereas volunteer pupils take part in tourist zones as well as buffer regions actively.

Each wetland is assigned one enumerator and three volunteers who are armed with binoculars, spotting scopes, and datasheets. In the preceding census of KNPTR, it was observed that a significant number of 66,776 wetland birds were recorded. The objectives for this year's festival and count include not just updating these figures but also highlighting the diverse avifauna in the area which will contribute immensely to conservation efforts aimed at preserving these magnificent creatures' habitats.

Recognized by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area, Kaziranga National Park is famous for its varied wildlife and serves as a vital bird region in India. Housing 478 avian species, including 25 globally endangered and 21 nearly threatened ones, it underscores the significance of preserving biodiversity hotspots. Through combined endeavors towards conducting census activities to gather data on these birds' behaviors at the park's premises; they demonstrate their dedication towards protecting them from any threat factors that might put their safety in jeopardy. Thus this summary would be beneficial precisely shaping future conservation strategies geared toward guaranteeing avian well-being within Kaziranga National Park jurisdictional areas decidedly lie ahead with collective analysis results obtained during such surveys.

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