Guwahati, Jan 18: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary has witnessed a significant rise in its Asian water bird population, with over 10,000 birds recorded across nine water bodies during a bird count conducted on Saturday.
The census, performed by a team of forest officials in collaboration with Aaranyak and the Assam Bird Monitoring Network, marks a notable increase from the 2022–2023 count of 8,441 birds.
The survey also documented several new species, adding to the sanctuary’s rich avian diversity. However, the final count is yet to be confirmed. “The official numbers will be released after thorough data compilation,” stated Pranjal Baruah, Range Officer, Pobitora WLS.
A dedicated 12-team enumeration unit comprising 22 experts, including renowned naturalist and ornithologist Dr. Anwaruddin Choudhary, participated in the survey. Experts from different parts of Assam and the Mayong region meticulously covered the nine water bodies of Pobitora WLS.
The census, which began at 9 AM and lasted for two hours, was overseen by Ashok Dev Choudhary, CDFO of the Guwahati Wildlife Division, Puspadhar Buragohain, Range Officer of the Guwahati Wildlife Division, and officials from the Kamrup East Division.
Among the notable migratory bird species spotted were Baikal Teal, Tufted Duck, Greater White-Fronted Goose, Falcated Duck, Bar-Headed Goose, Greylag Goose, Northern Pintail, Pied Avocet, and Northern Shoveler.
The increasing bird count highlights Pobitora’s crucial role as a wintering ground for migratory water birds, reinforcing the need for continued conservation efforts to protect these avian visitors.
