Bhubaneswar: The annual bird census began on Sunday at Odisha’s major wetlands, Chilika Lake and Hirakud Dam, to monitor the arrival, diversity, and population of resident and migratory birds this season.

Specially formed teams of forest officials and bird experts have been deployed to ensure accurate and comprehensive counts.

Chilika Lake CensusAt Chilika Lake, 22 teams have been organized, covering five ranges—Balugan, Rambha, Tangi, Chilika, and Satapada. Each team consists of 10–12 members. Forest officials and bird experts are closely observing bird activity in areas like Mangalajodi using binoculars, and small boats are being used to avoid disturbing the birds. Experts have reported sightings of several new species this year, with the final count to be released after the census concludes.

Hirakud Dam CensusAt Hirakud Dam in Sambalpur district, 32 teams of around 70 counters are participating. The reservoir has been divided into 21 sectors extending to the Odisha–Chhattisgarh border. Forest officials from Sambalpur, Bargarh, and Jharsuguda districts are joined by bird enthusiasts, club members, photographers, and students. GPS trackers are being used to assist with monitoring and data collection.

Anshu Pragyan Das, Divisional Forest Officer of the Hirakud Wildlife Division, said 38 teams comprising 92 participants—including 38 bird experts, around 40 forest staff, and students—began counting birds from 6 am. Last year, over three lakh migratory birds were recorded at Hirakud Dam.

The census is expected to provide critical data on bird populations and migration patterns, helping to plan and strengthen future conservation efforts.