Pune: 7,000 Birds of 150 Species Recorded in Ujani Backwaters Census
Pune: 7,000 Birds of 150 Species Recorded in Ujani Backwaters Census
A recent waterbird census conducted at the Ujani dam backwaters in Maharashtra recorded an impressive 7,000 individual birds from 150 different species. The census, held on Sunday, was a collaborative effort between the Wildlife Research and Conservation Society (WRCS), forest department officials, and birding enthusiasts.
The exercise, which took place from 7 am to 11 am at 14 select locations, identified several migratory bird species, including the ruddy shelduck, bar-headed goose, and spotted redshank. Resident birds like herons were also spotted nesting and breeding at the site.
Ameya Deshpande, a researcher at WRCS told media that, the number of birds recorded is lower than expected due to high water levels after the monsoon. However, the team is optimistic that bird numbers will increase in the coming months.
The census is part of a two-year study aimed at identifying the problems plaguing the Ujani backwaters, including pollution and habitat destruction. The study’s findings will be used to suggest a management plan to the Solapur forest division, which plans to pitch the site as a ‘Ramsar Site’ after its rejuvenation.
WRCS head Jayant Kulkarni stated while talking to the media that the organization will conduct a census every month until March 2025 to monitor changes in bird behavior and migratory patterns.
The study has already identified several problem areas, including incoming effluents from Kurkumbh MIDC and urban pollution from Pune city, which are contaminating the Bhima river and affecting the backwaters. Habitat-destructive practices like agriculture and sand mining have also reduced nesting and feeding grounds for birds.
The team plans to suggest management initiatives, including the creation of artificial perching and feeding sites, to mitigate these issues and protect the bird population.
