A recent bird census has revealed a decline in the number of winter birds visiting the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (KTWR) in Nepal. While the diversity of species has increased slightly, the overall population count is significantly lower than in previous years.
The census, conducted by the Himalayan Nature Society, found only 5,527 birds from 53 species. This marks a decrease from 2023, when 7,553 birds from 56 species were recorded.
Binay Kumar Mishra, Information Officer of the KTWR, acknowledges the drop in numbers while noting the increase in species diversity. Birendra Gautam, Chief of the National Trust for Nature Conservation Koshi Tappu Centre, expressed concern about the decline of winter bird populations.
Experts are investigating the reasons behind this change, which could have significant implications for the reserve’s delicate ecosystem.
