Bird census begins at Hirakud reservoir in Odisha

A massive operation has begun for the annual bird census at Hirakud reservoir. Over 60 officials, including forest personnel and other experts, have been engaged to carryout the bird enumeration exercise this year.

Hirakud DFO, Pragyna Das informed that for the first time some bird experts, who had approached them a month back, are taking part in the annual bird census of migratory birds.

“We have divided the entire Hirakud reservoir into 15 sectors and each sector will be covered by at least two teams for carring out the bird census which began at 6 am today. More than 60 enumerators, including 30 forest officials and some ornithologists are part of the exercise,” said Das.

According to Das, several youngsters and budding bird watchers have also been engaged for the annul bird census exercise. The birds census will be carried out in the entire Hirakud reservoir areas under Sambalpur, Jharsuguda and Bargarh districts from Hirakud to Chhattisgarh border.

Apart from the experts, 35 fishermen and boats will be engaged for the annual exercise. All the team members have been equipped with binoculars, life jackets and other essential gadgets and articles to carry out the exercise which will continue till 5 pm today.

Over 2 lakh migratory birds had visited and sighted during the annual bird census at Hirakud reservoir in 2022.

(Reported by Sanjay Jena)