Chilika Lake Bird Census to Be Held on January 18, Dolphin Count from January 20

Bhubaneswar: The Chilika Lake bird census will be conducted on January 18, with training for enumerators scheduled a day earlier, officials announced on Friday. The annual exercise is a key scientific effort to document migratory and resident bird populations in one of India’s most important wetland ecosystems. Officials also confirmed that the dolphin census in the lagoon will be carried out from January 20 to 22.

The announcement was made during a press conference by Amlan Nayak, Divisional Forest Officer of the Chilika Wildlife Division, who outlined the schedule and objectives of the biodiversity assessment.

Chilika Lake Bird Census to Cover Multiple Ranges

Teams of trained enumerators will be deployed across several ranges of Chilika Lake, which is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. The census will involve systematic counting and identification of both migratory and resident bird species that flock to the wetland during the winter season.

Officials said the exercise would provide updated and reliable data on bird populations, helping conservationists understand changing migration patterns and habitat health. The data collected will also support long-term wetland management and policy decisions.

Dolphin Census to Focus on Irrawaddy Dolphins

Following the bird survey, the dolphin census will be conducted between January 20 and 22. This exercise will focus on assessing the population and distribution of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, a flagship species of Chilika Lake.

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Forest officials noted that regular monitoring of dolphin numbers is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of conservation efforts and identifying emerging threats to the species and its habitat.

Chilika Lake Bird Census Supports Conservation and Eco-Tourism

Authorities emphasised that the Chilika Lake bird census is not just a counting exercise but a vital conservation tool. The findings will help strengthen biodiversity protection measures and guide habitat restoration initiatives across the lagoon.

In addition, the updated data is expected to play an important role in eco-tourism planning. Chilika attracts thousands of tourists and birdwatchers each year, and accurate biodiversity information helps promote responsible tourism while safeguarding sensitive ecosystems.

Biodiversity Data to Aid Long-Term Planning

According to officials, the combined bird and dolphin census will generate comprehensive biodiversity data for the region. This information will be used to improve wildlife management strategies, enhance conservation awareness, and ensure sustainable development around the lagoon.

The annual census remains a cornerstone of Chilika’s environmental monitoring framework, reinforcing its status as one of India’s most significant wetland conservation success stories.