Rare migratory birds spotted at Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha
27-November-2020

The wetlands in Odisha�s Bhitarkanika National Park are playing host to avifaunal guests this winter. According to the reports, migratory birds from different parts of the world have found their home in this winter sanctuary located in Kendrapara district.

As many as 15000 birds have been residing at the Bhitarkanika National Park presently. As reported by a leading news website, Rajnagar Mangrove (Wildlife) Divisional Forest Officer Bikash Ranjan Das took note of their presence in the area in the last few days.

Reportedly, the migratory birds have been spotted in Raipatia and Satabhaya water bodies as well as the creeks in the mangrove forest in the place extending for about a kilometre. The birds include the ones that have migrated from Central Asia.
Rare migratory birds spotted at Bhitarkanika National Park in OdishaPhoto by: The Funky Writer, Creative Commons Attribution Licence

As the winter gets unbearable in the northern hemisphere, a large number of birds fly to Bhitarkanika and Chilka wetlands to seek relief from the freezing temperatures. These two areas lack human intervention and there is enough food available, hence migratory birds prefer to spend winters here till the end of March.

At Bhitarkanika, one can spot endangered species such as White-backed Vultures, Indian Skimmers, Grey Pelicans, Lesser Adjutants and Greater Spotted Eagles.

More such birds have been sighted like the Northern Pin Tail, Black- tailed Godwit, Egret Spotted Bills, Oriental Darter, Lesser Whistling Duck, Grey Plover, White Belley Seagull and Black-necked Stork.