Punjab Wetlands Witness Decline in Migratory Bird Numbers Amid Rising Species Diversity
In a concerning ecological development, wetlands across Punjab have recorded a significant drop in the number of migratory birds visiting these crucial habitats. According to the latest census data, the total bird count fell from 77,772 in 2025 to 71,129 in 2026, marking a notable decrease. However, in a contrasting trend, the number of species observed rose substantially from 278 to 304, suggesting shifting ecological patterns rather than a straightforward population decline.
Detailed Census Findings Across Key Wetlands
The comprehensive census covered several important wetlands, including Harike Wildlife Sanctuary, Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary, Keshopur Wetlands, Ranjit Sagar Wetlands, Ropar Wetlands, and Kanjli Wetlands. The data reveals varied performances across these sites:
- Harike Wetland: As Punjab's largest wetland, it saw bird numbers decline from 57,251 to 52,707, while species count increased from 80 to 87.
- Keshopur Wetland: Bird numbers dropped from 13,675 to 10,450, with species count rising from 75 to 78.
- Ropar Wetland: This site registered positive growth, with bird numbers increasing from 1,486 to 2,313 and species count inching up from 44 to 45.
- Nangal Wetland: Recorded strong improvement, with bird numbers rising from 2,411 to 3,169 and species count jumping from 36 to 44.
- Ranjit Sagar Dam: Bird numbers fell from 2,500 to 1,867, though species count saw a slight increase from 20 to 21.
- Kanjli Wetland: Posted encouraging gains, with bird numbers rising from 449 to 623 and species count increasing from 23 to 29.
Officials Attribute Decline to Flood Impact
Basanta Rajkumar, Chief Wildlife Warden of Punjab, attributed the overall dip in bird numbers largely to the impact of massive floods last year. These floods significantly affected wetlands such as Ranjit Sagar, Harike, and Keshopur, disrupting habitats and food sources. In comparison, wetlands like Ropar, Kanjli, and Nangal remained relatively less affected, which is reflected in their improved counts.
Despite the habitat disruption caused by the floods, some encouraging signs emerged. At Keshopur Wetlands, a flock of 441 Common Cranes was recorded—a species confined to the Keshopur-Shalla Pattan belt in Punjab. Additionally, 11 Black-necked Grebes were sighted at Nangal, a species rarely reported in Punjab and across north-western India.
Global Ecological Significance of Punjab's Wetlands
Punjab's wetlands hold immense global ecological importance. Several sites, including Harike, Ropar, Kanjli, Keshopur, and Nangal, are recognized as Ramsar sites—wetlands of international importance. Despite having less than 7% forest and wildlife cover, Punjab boasts six wetlands designated under the Ramsar Convention, placing it third in India after Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh.
Methodology and Collaborative Efforts
The census was conducted in January 2026 following Asian Waterbird Census protocols. Wetlands were divided into survey blocks to ensure comprehensive coverage and avoid double counting. Observations included species-wise enumeration, flock size estimation, habitat use assessment, and analysis of disturbance factors.
This extensive exercise was carried out by the Punjab Forest Department in collaboration with several key organizations, including the Bombay Natural History Society, Wildlife Institute of India, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, WWF-India, Punjab Agricultural University, Guru Nanak Dev University, and Panjab University. Local birding groups and volunteers also played a crucial role in the data collection process.
The contrasting trends of declining bird numbers but increasing species diversity highlight the complex ecological dynamics at play in Punjab's wetlands. While flood impacts have taken a toll on overall populations, the rise in species count suggests potential shifts in migratory patterns or habitat adaptations that warrant further study and conservation attention.
