Forest officials and bird enthusiasts in Vadodara have raised an alarm as the Wadhwana wetlands are witnessing a surprisingly low number of migratory birds this season. The annual bird census, conducted on Friday, recorded significantly fewer sightings compared to previous years, sparking concern about the ecological health of this important habitat.
Annual Census Reveals Worrying Trend
The annual bird count at the Wadhwana lake, spanning 10.38 square kilometres, was carried out by multiple teams from the forest department along with volunteers. These teams were positioned at various points around the wetland to document all avian visitors. While the final, compiled numbers are still awaited, the initial observations point to a clear and worrying dip in the population of winter migratory species.
This decline was not entirely unexpected. Officials revealed that a pre-count survey conducted approximately a month ago had already tallied fewer than 20,000 birds at the site, setting a concerning precedent for the main census.
Species Spotted Amidst the Decline
Despite the overall lower numbers, the census teams did record the presence of dozens of species, confirming that the wetland still holds ecological value. Among the birds spotted were:
- Ruddy Shelducks
- Bar-headed Geese
- Greylag Geese
- Marsh Harriers
- Ruff and Reeve
- Tufted Ducks
- Cormorants
- A Black-necked Stork
The survey also registered a rare sighting of two Red-crested Pochards, a highlight in an otherwise sparse season.
High Water Levels a Primary Suspect
Forest department officials have identified high water levels at the Wadhwana wetlands as a primary reason for the birds giving the area a miss this winter. The unusually deep water may be submerging the shallow feeding zones and vegetation that many migratory bird species depend on for food and shelter.
"It is possible that more birds may arrive once the water level recedes," a forest official stated, offering a glimmer of hope. However, they also acknowledged that other environmental factors could be contributing to the decline, underscoring the need for continued monitoring and habitat management.
The situation at Wadhwana serves as a crucial reminder of the delicate balance required to maintain healthy wetlands. These ecosystems are vital stopovers for migratory birds, and changes in their condition have immediate and visible effects on avian populations. The forest department's ongoing observations will be key to understanding whether this is a temporary setback or part of a longer-term trend.
