Puri, Jan 19: Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, has once again reaffirmed its status as a paradise for migratory birds. The annual bird census conducted this year has revealed encouraging results, with both the number of birds and species showing an increase compared to last year.

On January 18, the census was carried out across five forest ranges — Rambha, Balugaon, Nuapada, Satapada, and Tangi — by dividing the area into 22 groups. Teams used 19 boats and three road routes to cover the vast expanse of the lake. The exercise began at 6 am and continued until noon, involving 133 members including forest officials, volunteers, and experts.

According to the official figures, Chilika hosted 11,32,200 birds belonging to 196 species this year. Nalabana Sanctuary alone recorded 106 species with 3,97,587 birds.

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Compared to last year, the lake witnessed an increase of 4,972 birds. Out of the total, 11,10,257 were migratory birds from 106 species, while 21,943 birds from 90 species were native residents.

Notably, species like the Plain Martin and Bengal Bush Lark were spotted in Chilika for the first time, adding to the biodiversity richness.

A look at the past five years shows a steady rise in bird diversity:

• 2025: 196 species, 11.27 lakh migratory birds
• 2024: 189 species, 11.37 lakh migratory birds
• 2023: 184 species, 11.31 lakh migratory birds
• 2020-21: 111 species, 12.04 lakh birds
• 2017-18: 95 species, 8.68 lakh birds

The figures highlight how conservation efforts and improved habitat management have contributed to sustaining bird populations in the lagoon.

Dolphin Census Begins Tomorrow

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the dolphin census in Chilika, scheduled for January 20-22. Training sessions for enumerators were held at Satapada and Balugaon on Monday.

The census will be conducted in two ranges, divided into three sectors, with 18 teams deployed — 10 in Balugaon and 8 in Satapada. Each team will consist of 5-6 members along with two boatmen.

A total of 145 participants, including forest staff, volunteers, members of the Bombay Natural History Society, Chilika Development Authority officials, OUAT students, and NGO workers, will take part. The exercise will rely on binoculars, GPS devices, and photography for accurate counting.

During the dolphin census, ferry services in Chilika will remain suspended from 6 am to 12 noon on January 20, 21, and 22. Passenger and transport boats will also be halted to ensure smooth operations.

With bird numbers rising and dolphin counts set to begin, Chilika continues to stand as a symbol of Odisha’s ecological wealth and biodiversity.