Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary Faces Steep Decline in Avian Population
The bird population at the Jayakwadi bird sanctuary in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has continued its alarming decline, with various unregulated human activities being identified as the primary culprits behind the dwindling numbers of winged creatures. This concerning trend highlights the growing threats to biodiversity in this important ecological zone.
Recent Census Reveals Troubling Numbers
A recent bird census conducted at the sanctuary on January 18 documented the presence of just over 100 feathery bipeds, a figure that represents a significant reduction from historical counts. The census was carried out by the Forest Department with assistance from experts and dedicated volunteers, who meticulously recorded both migratory and resident bird species.
Veteran birder Dilip Bhagat expressed deep concern about the situation, noting that Jayakwadi bird sanctuary once served as home to a very large number of resident and migratory birds. "The site now has a greatly reduced presence of birds," Bhagat lamented. He pointed specifically to unchecked fishing activities and wetland farming as major disturbances. "Such rampant man-made activities result in birds turning their backs on Jayakwadi bird sanctuary," he explained.
Multiple Threats to Avian Habitat
Conservationist Dr. Kishor Pathak highlighted additional threats, including an upcoming solar power plant that has already begun to negatively impact the sanctuary. "The project in future is bound to cause more harm to the bird sanctuary," Pathak warned. "It will snatch habitats and food from birds, further exacerbating their decline."
Pathak also noted that rampant tree cutting around the bird sanctuary has caused significant harm to the overall ecology, creating additional pressure on the already vulnerable bird populations. Despite repeated attempts to seek their perspective, top Forest Department officials could not be reached for comments on these concerning developments.
Iconic Species Still Present but Vulnerable
The bird census did document several iconic migratory species, including:
- Flamingos
- Plovers
- Barn swallow
- Eurasian wigeon
- Bar-headed goose
- Garganey ducks
- Pintail ducks
- Northern shoveler
- Osprey
- Marsh harrier
- River tern
- Whisker tern
- Pratincole
- Brown-headed gull
- Open bill stork
- Glossy ibis
- Black-headed ibis
- Wagtails
While these species were observed during the census, their numbers remain worryingly low compared to previous years.
Water Management Impacts Bird Habitats
Another significant factor contributing to the decline is the current water management at the Jayakwadi major irrigation project, which currently maintains 87% live storage. The substantial water stock in the dam has shrunk roosting and nesting habitats for birds, creating unfavorable conditions that have directly contributed to the drop in bird population. This combination of human activities and environmental changes presents a complex challenge for conservation efforts at this important sanctuary.
