Tamil Nadu's bird census counts 5.52 lakh wetland birds and 2.32 lakh terrestrial birds

Chennai: Tamil Nadu has 5.52 lakh wetland birds from 397 species and 2.32 lakh terrestrial birds from 401 species, of which over 1 lakh are migratory birds, according to the 2025 synchronized bird census conducted by the state government in two phases.

The survey, which was conducted in March covering 934 wetland and 1,093 terrestrial locations, also recorded 26 endangered species and 17 nocturnal bird species, marking a significant achievement in conservation monitoring. Of the total birds, 49 per cent were from coastal districts.

Little egret, Little cormorant, Asian openbill, Black headed Ibis, Glossy Ibis and Indian pond Heron were the most common birds sighted among resident birds, while Greylag Goose, Greater Flamingo, Eurasian Curlew, Pied Avocet, Lesser Crested Tern and Eurasian Spoonbill were the most common birds sighted among migratory birds.

With an aim to protect and conserve the avi-faunal diversity, the state government launched a massive synchronised bird census across the state during the year 2023 and is continuing every year.

“The purpose and importance of this long-term monitoring of birds of Tamil Nadu is aimed at not only recording the presence of birds, but also observing other critical habitats, threat factors for the better planning and designing strategies for long-term conservation of avian diversity and their habitats,” a senior government official said.

Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary (Environment and Forests) said the he results offer a fascinating glimpse into the state’s thriving avian diversity. “Our strategy of year round monitoring and public participation is giving some incredible insights in this area,” she added.

This year’s bird census laid special emphasis to document endangered birds and nocturnal birds. In this census, out of 37 endangered bird species available in Tamil Nadu, 26 species were recorded and 17 nocturnal bird species were recorded.

Terrestrial Birds Census covered 1093 locations and 2.32 lakh birds belonging to 401 bird species were counted in the estimation.

Out of this, 1,13,606 birds were migratory birds. House crow, Common Myna, Rose Ringed Parakeet, Rose Vented Bulbul, Yellow-billed Babbler, Asian Palm Swift, Black Drango, Little Egret, Indian Peafowl, Spotted Dove were the most common birds sighted.

This year the census has been done in the month of March towards the end of the migratory season, with the objective of spreading bird counts in different months of the season, so that a fairly goodassessment is made over a period of time for bird sightings during various months, the official added.

The government will also analyse the voluminous data to get much deeper insights into spatio-temporal variations across the state.