The Kaziranga National Park, in collaboration with the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), is set to host the 'Kaziranga Bird Conservation Festival' from January 9 to 10, 2024. This two-day extravaganza, featuring renowned personalities, conservationists, and wildlife experts, will include the 5th waterbird census. Themed "Conserving Birds using Citizen Science," the festival aims to actively engage ordinary citizens in monitoring and protecting bird populations, contributing to the broader mission of environmental awareness and conservation efforts.
Nature enthusiasts and students will soon have the opportunity to register as volunteers, actively participating in the census covering approximately 80 wetlands within the Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve boundary. This includes areas under Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, Biswanath Wildlife Division, and Nagaon Wildlife Division, along with certain wetlands falling outside the KNPTR boundary within the 1 km buffer area.
Kaziranga, nestled under the Central Asian Flyway (CAF) and the East Asian-Australasian Flyway (EAAF), becomes a transient hub for migratory waterbirds from Eurasia, the Tibetan Plateau, Mongolia, Russia, Siberia, and Ladakh. Notable arrivals include the majestic Bar-headed Goose, Greylag Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, and other species, with some even conquering the Himalayan range, epitomized by the world's highest-altitude migrant, the Bar-headed Goose. Despite the awe-inspiring nature of these migrations, many migratory bird species face declines due to various threats.
The East Asian-Australasian Flyway, stretching from Arctic Russia to Australia and New Zealand, encompasses East and Southeast Asia. From October to February, migratory birds following these flyways grace Kaziranga, ushering in an avian spectacle. Transient visitors like the Spot-billed Pelican, Greater Adjutant, Lesser Adjutant, and others join resident treasures, creating a harmonious avian tapestry.
Kaziranga's unwavering commitment to avian conservation, coupled with the active involvement of citizens, marks a significant stride towards safeguarding the diverse birdlife and ensuring the sustainability of this unique ecosystem. So, let your spirits soar as we embark on a journey to celebrate the enchanting avian symphony echoing over the lush landscapes of Kaziranga.
