Bhitarkanika National Park Reemerges as Major Heronry of Birds

Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park in Kendrapara district has once again reaffirmed its status as a vital habitat for resident water birds, with the latest census recording a stable nesting population.

According to official statistics released by the Forest Department on Tuesday, the annual colonial bird census pegged the population at 1,30,796 birds belonging to 10 species. This marks a marginal rise from last year’s count of 1,30,123 birds.

“The consistent presence of diverse water bird species underlines the ecological importance of Bhitarkanika Mangroves as one of the largest heronries in Asia,” said Rajnagar Mangrove Wildlife Division’s Divisional Forest Officer, Varadaraj Gaonkar.

Forest officials noted that the stable numbers reflect Bhitarkanika’s resilience as a breeding ground for monsoon birds and the success of ongoing conservation efforts. The park, crisscrossed by creeks and mudflats, provides an ideal nesting habitat for species such as openbill storks, egrets, herons, and cormorants.

Experts believe the continued growth in water bird populations highlights the need for sustained protection of Bhitarkanika’s unique ecosystem, which plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity along Odisha’s coast.