Chilika Lake welcomes winged guests from across the world ahead of winter

Winged guests from different parts of the world have started their annual journey to Chilika – India’s largest waterbird habitat in Odisha- ahead of winter this year. From ducks, flamingos, glossy Ibis, and Eurasian wigeon to red-necked grebe, Chilika is filled with a variety of migratory birds from different parts of the world.

The birds mostly from the remote areas of Russia, the Caspian region, Siberia, and Kazakhstan, and mostly from beyond the Himalayas in Northern Eurasia, visit Chilika every year and start their homeward journey before the onset of summer.

This year, the beautiful feathered guests have arrived a bit early. The early onset of winter in their native habitats is suspected to have prompted the birds to fly millions of kilometres to Chilika. The arrival of the birds has spread cheers among bird lovers.

“The beauty of Chilika doubles up with the arrival of these beautiful winged guests every year before the onset of winter. Today, hundreds of different species of birds have already arrived here while many more are on their way to descend. These birds are god sent and add to the beauty of Chilika,” said Gopalkrushna Jena, an animal lover.

“Chilika is nature’s blessing to Odisha. The birds that come here every year further enhance the beauty of its beauty. This is a huge attraction for visitors from across the country. This has put Odisha in the world map,” said Tukuna Kar, a bird lover.

Meanwhile, the forest department with the cooperation of locals has started taking precaution measures in the protection of the winged guests.

“Birds come here every year. But, it is important to protect these endangered birds that enhance the beauty of Chilika with their presence. Locals here are well aware and do not endanger their lives. We have vowed to protect them and not let outsiders cause them any harm,” said a local Akshay Kumar Jena.