In a recent Asian Waterbird Census, Haryana’s Bhindawas Wetland emerged as an important haven for birdlife, with 9,483 waterbirds representing 52 species counted during the survey. The annual census, carried out on January 17 by the Haryana State Biodiversity Board and Rohtak Wildlife Division along with Wetlands International South Asia, highlighted both the ecological value and the environmental pressures facing this Ramsar‑recognized wetland.
The count included 27 resident and 27 migratory species, with sightings of globally threatened birds such as the Greater Spotted Eagle, Common Pochard, and Ferruginous Duck. Notable migratory visitors from northern and central Asia included species like the Northern Shoveler, Common Teal, Gadwall, and Greylag Goose.
Experts involved in the survey stressed that a decline in waterbird numbers often reflects underlying issues such as reduced food availability, altered water quality, and habitat disturbances caused by human activity.
Despite growing environmental stressors like drying wetland sections and invasive aquatic plants such as water hyacinth, the strong turnout of species underscores the wetland’s role as a key stopover and wintering ground on migratory routes.
Officials say ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts are vital to sustain the wetland’s ecological health and biodiversity. Regular surveys such as this help inform broader conservation strategies under international frameworks like Ramsar, IUCN, CMS, and CITES.
Local conservation groups and forest authorities are urging continued focus on habitat protection, sustainable water management, and community engagement to safeguard this critical ecosystem in the face of climate change and development pressures.
