India’s First Coastline-Waders Bird Census to Take Place in Jamnagar from January 3 to 5, 2025

Gandhinagar (Gujarat), January 2: For the first time in India, a comprehensive census of coastal and wader birds will be conducted at the Marine National Park and Marine Sanctuary in Jamnagar from January 3 to 5, 2025. This pioneering event aims to document the diverse bird species that frequent the coastal areas of Gujarat, with a particular focus on wader birds, which are vital indicators of the region’s ecological health.

Jamnagar, often regarded as a paradise for coastal bird species, is set to host this landmark initiative. The three-day program will begin with expert talks from specialists in forestry and wildlife on the first day, followed by intensive bird counting activities on the second day. The final day will feature knowledge-sharing sessions and a closing ceremony. The event is expected to attract bird enthusiasts, researchers, and wildlife experts from across India.

Gujarat has long been recognized for its rich biodiversity, and this census highlights the state’s commitment to environmental conservation. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera, and State Minister Mukeshbhai Patel, the Gujarat Forest Department has made significant strides in conserving both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. These efforts have helped establish Gujarat as a leader in forestry and environmental protection in India.

The bird census is being organized jointly by the Gujarat Forest Department and the Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat (BCSG). The BCSG has been at the forefront of bird conservation for over 25 years, engaging in bird census activities, observation, and raising awareness about avian science.

The Marine National Park and Marine Sanctuary, India’s first designated marine national park, is located in the Gulf of Kutch, spanning the districts of Devbhoomi Dwarka, Jamnagar, and Morbi. Covering approximately 170 km of coastline and 42 islands between Okha and Navlakhi, this protected area is a hotspot for marine biodiversity. The park is home to a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, dolphins, turtles, and dugongs, as well as an array of mangrove species.

One of the unique features of the Marine National Park is that it is the only place in India where visitors can explore marine life on foot during low tide, offering a rare opportunity to observe marine life up close without the need for scuba diving. This accessibility makes the park an important location for both research and tourism, as it provides an opportunity to study and experience the region’s rich aquatic biodiversity.

Jamnagar’s location within the Central Asian Flyway makes it a crucial point for migratory birds. This flyway extends from the Arctic to the Indian Ocean, passing through parts of Europe and Asia, and serves as an essential migratory route for millions of birds each year. The region’s diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, coastal stretches, and salt pans, provide ideal habitats for both resident and migratory birds. The area is particularly renowned for its wader birds, many of which are rarely found elsewhere in the country.

Among the 300 species of birds that visit Jamnagar, more than 50 are wader birds, including rare species such as the Crab Plover (Shankhlo) and the Great Knot (Moto Kichadiyo). These birds are an integral part of Jamnagar’s avian diversity, and the upcoming census will provide crucial insights into their populations and migratory patterns.

Key birding hotspots in the region, such as the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary and Narara, have long attracted bird watchers and researchers. The upcoming census of wader birds is the first dedicated effort to systematically document these species in the region, contributing valuable data to conservation efforts.

The Gujarat government continues to prioritize the conservation of birdlife through scientific population estimations and habitat management. These efforts are aimed at better understanding the behavior, migration, and population densities of both resident and migratory species. By identifying new habitats and tracking seasonal migration patterns, the state is building a foundation for informed conservation decisions that will help preserve the region’s avian biodiversity for future generations.

This historic bird census is a significant step toward advancing bird conservation in Gujarat and India as a whole, and it underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies, conservation organizations, and the public in safeguarding our natural heritage.