By combining grassroots involvement with scientific expertise, the annual water bird census remains a cornerstone of Nepal’s conservation efforts, offering hope for the sustainable preservation of its wetlands and the diverse species they sustain.
The much-anticipated annual water bird census has commenced across Nepal, starting Saturday, January 4, 2025. This nationwide initiative, which spans two weeks, is being conducted in lakes, ponds, rivers, and wetlands to gather critical data on the population, species diversity, and habitat conditions of water birds.
Laxmi Prasad Poudel, a senior ornithologist and coordinator of the census for Wetlands International Nepal, emphasised that the survey has been a January tradition since its inception. “This census aims to collect vital data on both resident and migratory water birds, providing insights into their dependence on Nepal’s aquatic ecosystems,” Poudel explained.
Winter Haven for Migratory Birds
Each winter, Nepal becomes a sanctuary for thousands of migratory birds fleeing the harsh cold of the Arctic, Russia, China, and Mongolia. These birds seek the country’s hospitable climate and abundant food sources found in its wetlands and protected areas.
Among the migratory species observed are geese, ducks, and cormorants, which thrive in Nepal’s waterways teeming with fish, insects, and other sustenance. The Nepalese Ornithological Union notes that the annual census offers a glimpse into the health of these ecosystems, underscoring their global significance as wintering grounds for avian species.
Global Initiative Rooted in Local Participation
The census is part of the Asian Water Bird Census (AWC), a program launched in 1987 by Wetlands International to monitor water birds across Asia, Europe, West Asia, the Neotropics, and the Caribbean. Nepal has been an active participant since the AWC’s inception, making this the country’s longest-running wildlife monitoring effort.
Originally focused on a single Ramsar site and a few wetlands, Nepal’s census now covers a wide array of locations, including Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Chitwan, Bardiya, Shuklaphanta, Rara National Park, and other critical wetland regions like Beeshazar Tal, Ghoda Ghodi Tal, and Jagadishpur Reservoir. This year’s efforts aim to expand coverage to areas like Gokyo, Gosainkunda, Mai Pokhari, and Phoksundo lakes.
“Citizen participation has been key to the success of this program,” Poudel said, encouraging birdwatchers visiting these regions to contribute their observations.
By combining grassroots involvement with scientific expertise, the annual water bird census remains a cornerstone of Nepal’s conservation efforts, offering hope for the sustainable preservation of its wetlands and the diverse species they sustain.
Highlights from 2024
In 2024, the census covered 18 major wetlands and 84 smaller areas, enlisting 402 volunteers who recorded 63,900 water birds representing 79 species. Six of these surveyed wetlands are designated Ramsar sites, recognized for their international importance.
The findings from this year’s census will be unveiled on February 2, 2025, to coincide with World Wetlands Day. A detailed report will follow during Wildlife Week, observed from April 13 to 19, 2025. These reports, along with comparative data from previous years, will help assess trends in water bird populations, distribution, and the overall health of Nepal’s wetlands.
Protecting Nepal’s Wetlands
Nepal’s wetlands play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, acting as vital habitats for both migratory and resident water birds. However, these ecosystems face mounting challenges, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. The annual census not only sheds light on bird populations but also highlights the urgency of preserving these fragile ecosystems.
“This year’s efforts will focus on areas that have received limited attention in the past, such as Rara Lake and key wetland areas in the Kathmandu and Pokhara valleys,” Poudel said.
As the census progresses, it continues to reinforce Nepal’s commitment to conserving its natural heritage. The data collected will guide future conservation strategies and strengthen the country’s role in the global effort to protect avian species and their habitats.
