Odisha Forest dept tracks flamingos with innovative GPS technology

Bhubaneswar, Jan 11: In a groundbreaking initiative, the Odisha Forest Department has equipped two flamingos with solar-powered GPS-GSM trackers to monitor their movements for the first time. This initiative, announced by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) – Wildlife Prem Kumar Jha on Saturday, aims to study the migratory patterns of these remarkable birds.

Jha shared images of the flamingos on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), highlighting the achievement: “For the first time, a GPS-GSM solar-powered tracker was fitted on 2 Greater Flamingos at Nalabana, Chilika, by Odisha Wildlife Org & @wii_india led by Dr. Suresh Kumar. This will track movements and migration patterns of these majestic birds. #Chilika.”

The trackers were installed on the flamingos at Chilika Lake, a renowned sanctuary for migratory birds along India’s eastern coastline. The primary objective of this project is to gain a deeper understanding of the migration routes and behaviors of these avian visitors.

By utilizing GPS and GSM technology, the solar-powered trackers will provide real-time data transmission, enabling the Forest Department to monitor the flamingos’ travel routes and destinations both within India and internationally.