Asian Waterbird Census 2023

14-01-2023

1 min read

Prelims: Environment & Ecology

Overview:

A recent detailed assessment of the survey conducted in the northern parts of Alappuzha, as part of the Asian Waterbird Census 2023 revealed that a shift in migration patterns of waterbirds appears to be taking place.

Why in news?

In the recent survey, it is revealed that Duck species sighted in previous surveys were missing this time.
The most shocking aspect was that duck species like Northern Shoveler, Common teal and Eurasian wigeon, sighted in the previous surveys, were totally missing this time around.

Key facts about the main birds which were sighted during the census

Oriental darter
It is mainly found in freshwater rivers and ponds.
Conservation status
IUCN: Near Threat
Cattle egret
Conservation status
IUCN: Least Concern
Spot-billed Pelican
It breeds in southern Asia from southern Iran across India east to Indonesia.
Conservation status
IUCN: Near Threatened
Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule IV

Q1) Who conducts the Asian Waterbird Census?

It is an integral part of the global waterbird monitoring programme, which is conducted by the International Waterbird Census (IWC) in coordination with Wetlands International.

Source: A survey at Alappuzha wetlands hints at a decline in the number of visiting waterbirds