Kashmir wetlands witness bird resurgence, census set for mid-February

Kashmir wetlands witness bird resurgence, census set for mid-February Image/KL

VoM News Desk | February 9, 2025 | 10:04 AM IST | Breaking News, Jammu Kashmir | Tags: Jammu Kashmir news, Kashmir wetlands witness bird resurgence | Follow on Google News

Kashmir wetlands witness bird resurgence, census set for mid-February

With subzero temperatures subsiding in the Kashmir Valley, wetlands are witnessing a resurgence in migratory bird populations, and authorities are preparing for an extensive bird census between February 15 and 20, officials said.

Altaf Hussain, Wildlife Warden (Wetlands), Department of Wildlife Protection, said that with an increase in day and night temperatures, the valley’s wetlands are experiencing a rise in migratory bird populations.

The official said the department is planning its annual bird census to provide accurate data on migratory bird populations, noting that the number of guest birds has increased over the last two years.

“Currently, our wetlands have a significant bird population, and we anticipate numbers similar to last year,” the official said, adding that previous censuses recorded over 12 lakh birds across Kashmir’s wetlands.

The official highlighted a major breakthrough in maintaining water levels in the Hokersar wetland, stating that newly constructed water regulation gates have effectively ensured optimal water retention.

“These gates prevent unregulated water leakage, allowing areas that remained dry for decades to be submerged again, naturally reclaiming wetland habitat and deterring encroachment,” the official said.

He added that authorities are also focusing on other key wetlands, including Haigam and Shalbugh, with habitat restoration being a top priority.

“Siltation and waste accumulation remain major challenges. A strategic plan is being developed to mitigate these issues and restore the wetlands’ ecological balance,” the official said. (KNO)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by VoM News staff and is published from the syndicated feed)

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