The annual bird census in the Rapti River has officially commenced, focusing on aquatic and riparian bird species. The initiative began today from the Rapti Sonari Rural Municipality-1, Kusum area, under the leadership of the Banke National Park. Chief Conservation Officer Birendra Kandel confirmed the start of this vital ecological assessment, emphasizing its importance for local and migratory bird populations.
“Like every year, we have started this year’s bird census from the Rapti River, which serves as a habitat for both native and migratory birds,” Kandel stated. On the first day alone, several bird species were captured on camera, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the area.
Bird expert Ram Shahi, who is part of the census team, expressed concern about the loss of bird habitats. He attributed the decline to human activities around rivers, wetlands, and water bodies, which are critical habitats for these species. “Unregulated human interventions in rivers and streams are detrimental to birds, leading to habitat destruction,” Shahi remarked.
This initiative marks the continuation of a three-year tradition of winter bird census programs, noted conservationist Ashish Chaudhary. He added that the wetlands and water bodies in Banke, including those in the buffer zones, host a variety of migratory bird species. However, Chaudhary highlighted pressing threats such as infrastructure development, pesticide usage, and human encroachment, which have led to declining bird populations. “Local communities and residents near the rivers must play an active role alongside conservationists to protect these habitats,” Chaudhary urged.
The census team, comprising ornithologists, conservationists, park officials, and security personnel, is set to cover multiple sites, including the Rapti River, wetlands, and water bodies in Banke National Park. They will also visit Nepalgunj’s Kanti Lake, Baijanath’s Sutaiya Lake, and Mankhola in Bardiya’s border area to assess bird populations.
Notably, Kanti Lake in Nepalgunj serves as a habitat for protected bird species such as the Sarus crane, Shahi informed. This year marks the third bird census conducted in Banke, reflecting an ongoing commitment to monitoring and protecting the region’s avian biodiversity.
The census aims to raise awareness about the ecological importance of birds and encourage sustainable practices to mitigate habitat loss, ensuring a balanced coexistence between humans and wildlife.