Red Crested Poachards spotted at Jagatpur Wetland. Photo: Jay Kumar Jay
By Avijit BiswasÂ
Bhagalpur: Despite early indications of highly encouraging bird presence including both migratory and domestic species in wetlands of Bhagalpur, contrary to the expectations their presence has remained low so far this season in majority of wetlands of district barring few.
However, increase of bird diversity in almost all wetlands irrespective of relatively number wise low presence, is a point to rejoice for the bird watchers.
The results of Asiana Water Bird Census (AWC) -2026 that concluded in four wetlands of district today namely Jagatpur wetland popularly referred as Jagatpur Jheel, Ganga Prasad wetland popularly referred as Ganga Prasad Jheel beside wetlands located at Dimha and Kamlakund areas of Naugachia subdivision has substantiated increased bird diversity despite low bird presence.
With sufficient water availability, the habitat condition for the winged guests is comparatively better in wetlands this season where AWC concluded today. Low bird presence in the wetlands despite improved habitat condition is attributed to increased human interference beside water hyacinth infestation in wetlands in certain cases.
Dr D N Choudhary, professor of Zoology in T M Bhagalpur University (TMBU) also coordinator, AWC, Bihar who led the team that conducted bird survey in aforesaid wetlands confirming relatively low bird presence this season in majority of the wetlands said increase of bird diversity at all the wetlands is something that can be termed as highly positive development.
The AWC coordinator said barring Kamlakund wetland that is connected with Ganga the other wetlands namely Jagatpur, Dimha and Ganga Prasad wetlands where AWC was undertaken retains mainly flood water.
At Jagatpur wetland sharp decline in bird presence was observed this time however the bird diversity of the place has registered increase, he informed. Dr Choudhury said habitat condition of Jagatpur wetland however it was observed has been adversely affected despite availability of sufficient water due to large scale water hyacinth infestation in major portion of the wetland.
With low bird presence and increased diversity, the situation was found to be almost similar at Dimha and Ganga Prasad wetlands, he added. The AWC, coordinator informed at Kamalakund wetland bird census was undertaken for first time this year.
Due to sufficient water availability and presence of varied fish and water plant species, the wetland has high potential of attracting winged guests Dr Choudhury said adding Bar Headed Geese, Red crested Pochard, Gadwal, Osprey, Green Dunk, Pintail Dunk were among the bird species spotted at the wetland in course of survey.
Referring to use of fishing nets in Kamalakund wetland area, the AWC coordinator stressed upon need of minimal human interference in wetland areas for ensuring increased bird presence. The members of team involved in census included Rahul Rohitsab, Anand, Gyan Chand Gyani, Mukesh Gaurav, Jay Kumar Jay beside others.
About the Author
Avijit Biswas is a former reporter with the Hindustan Times, Patna Edition, based in Bhagalpur. He has more than 25 years of experience covering politics and other key beats across eastern Bihar. Known for his in-depth ground reporting and strong grasp of regional issues, Biswas has closely followed political developments and social trends in the region, earning credibility for accurate and balanced journalism.
About the Author
