Odisha’s Chilika turns birdwatchers’ paradise as over 11 lakh migratory birds arrive

Chilika Lake in Odisha has once again turned into a haven for migratory birds with the onset of winter, attracting a large number of tourists and birdwatchers from across the country. As temperatures drop, thousands of winged visitors have begun arriving at Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, marking the start of the annual migratory season.

According to Amlan Nayak, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chilika Wildlife Division, the migratory bird season at Chilika begins in October and continues till March every year. During this period, birds congregate at several locations across the lake, with Nalbana Bird Sanctuary and Mangalajodi emerging as the most popular destinations for bird lovers.

“In the recent bird estimation, we encountered around 11.27 lakh migratory birds across different parts of Chilika,” Nayak said, 
highlighting the ecological importance of the wetland. He added that to ensure protection and monitoring during the season, as many as 21 bird camps have been set up around the lake.

The forest department has also intensified conservation and awareness efforts. Regular awareness programmes are being conducted for schoolchildren and the general public to educate them about the importance of migratory birds and wetland conservation. Special awareness meetings are held at vulnerable locations, coupled with round-the-clock patrolling.

“These sustained efforts have significantly helped in reducing poaching activities in the Chilika region,” the DFO said.

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With favourable weather conditions and rich biodiversity, Chilika continues to remain one of India’s most important wintering grounds for migratory birds, offering a boost to eco-tourism while underscoring the need for continued conservation.