Bhubaneswar, Jan 19: Odisha’s Chilika Lake witnessed an impressive turnout of migratory birds during the mid-winter census conducted on Sunday, with more than 11.32 lakh birds representing over 196 species recorded.
According to Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden P K Jha, this year’s count stood at 11,32,200 birds, marking an increase of 4,972 birds compared to 11,27,228 recorded in 2025.
Enumerators also spotted two new species in the lagoon for the first time – Plain Martin and Bengal Bush Lark – adding to the region’s rich biodiversity. A significant rise was noted at Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, where the bird count increased from 3,43,226 birds of 92 species in 2025 to 3,97,587 birds of 106 species in 2026.
The number of migratory birds in Chilika also rose from 10,87,227 last year to 11,10,257 this year. Among the winged visitors, Northern Pintail topped the list with 2,18,993 birds, followed by Eurasian Wigeon (1,53,318) and Gadwall (1,43,127). While Chilika data is available, reports from other wetlands across the state are awaited.
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