Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Opens Birding Trail for Public During Wildlife Week

Bhubaneswar, Oct 4 : In a special initiative to mark Wildlife Week, authorities of the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha’s Bargarh district have opened a dedicated 2-km-long birding trail for the public, giving bird lovers and nature enthusiasts an opportunity to observe nesting feathered species amid the serene wilderness.

The trail, developed inside the Hirakud Wildlife Division, takes visitors through water inlets, streams, grasslands, and dense forest patches, offering glimpses of ground-nesting birds as well as those nesting on tall trees. A stretch of the trail also passes along the Hirakud Wetland, a hotspot for migratory waders, officials said.

According to Anshu Pragyan Das, Divisional Forest Officer (Hirakud Wildlife Division), the Debrigarh Sanctuary is home to more than 340 species of birds throughout the year, while the Hirakud Wetland records over 110 avian species every winter.

To enrich the experience, 42 information boards have been installed along the trail, providing details on commonly seen birds such as their lifespan, diet, nesting patterns, calls, and behavioral traits. A short film featuring various bird calls—ranging from mating to distress and territorial defense—has also been created to help visitors identify species through vocalizations.

“The birding trail with trained naturalists will enable every visitor, including children and youth, to identify bird species and learn about their ecological roles,” Das said. She emphasized that bird watching not only enhances focus, patience, and mindfulness, but also fosters empathy toward other forms of life.

Globally, the bird population is estimated at nearly 400 billion individuals—about six birds for every human. Yet, despite their abundance, very few people can identify the birds that live around them, the forest official noted.

By throwing open the birding trail during Wildlife Week, the sanctuary authorities hope to encourage people to connect with nature and gain a deeper appreciation of avian biodiversity.