Asian Waterbird Census Records Species

Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2026 Highlights:

• Date of Census: Conducted on January 6, 2026, coinciding with National Bird Day.

• Location: National Zoological Park, Delhi.

• Total Birds Recorded: 1,310 individuals across 18 species.

• Dominant Species:

  • Painted Storks: 930 (significant majority of the count).

• Other Species Observed:

  • Little Grebe
  • Little Cormorant
  • Black-crowned Night Heron
  • Indian Pond Heron
  • Little Egret
  • Large Egret
  • Red-naped Ibis
  • Indian Spot-billed Duck
  • Common Teal
  • Northern Shoveler
  • Red-wattled Lapwing
  • Common Sandpiper
  • White-breasted Waterhen
  • Common Moorhen
  • Rosy Pelican
  • Small Blue Kingfisher
  • White-breasted Kingfisher

• Organizers and Collaborators:

  • Conducted by the National Zoological Park.
  • Coordination with T.K. Roy, AWC State Coordinator (Delhi), Wetlands International South Asia.
  • Involvement of volunteers from universities and NGOs.

• Importance of the Census:

  • Highlights the rich diversity of resident and migratory waterbird species.
  • Supports avian conservation efforts and raises awareness about biodiversity.
  • Contributes to national and international biodiversity monitoring programs.

This census is part of ongoing efforts to track and promote the conservation of bird species, reflecting broader environmental and ecological initiatives pertinent to biodiversity sustainability.