NAWALPARASI: The recent water bird census in the Narayani river area has unveiled the presence of 41 bird species, indicating a decline compared to the 43 species recorded in the previous year.

Coordinated by DB Chaudhary, the Bird Census Coordinator at Chitwan National Park Western Sector, the survey identified changes in bird composition, with eight species absent this year and six new species observed.

The comprehensive bird count, spanning from Chitwan National Park to Nawalparasi (Bardaghat Susta East) and encompassing Narayani river and wetland areas, is conducted annually.

The region serves as a vital habitat for migratory birds from Mongolia, Burma, Siberia, China, Russia, Thailand, and Korea.

Chaudhary expressed concern over the overall decrease in the bird population, attributing it to factors such as water channel drying in the Narayani river, escalating pollution, diminishing food sources, and alterations in habitat conditions.

This year witnessed a significant 50 percent reduction in the number of ducks, particularly khoya ducks, linked to the drying of the Narayani river channel.

The challenges in bird conservation are further compounded by the decrease in the number of indigenous birds in the Narayani River and wetlands, accentuating the need for conservation efforts.

Notably, the Baikal Gairi bird, classified as the world’s rarest bird and listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list of endangered species, was discovered in the Narayani River during this year’s census.

Chaudhary highlighted that the birds visit the Narayani river area for food and rest during their migration from north to south.

The findings underscore the urgency for conservation initiatives to address the various threats impacting the avian population in this crucial ecosystem.

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