Kendrapara: Counting of migratory birds that arrived during the monsoon season began at Bhitarkanika National Park in Kendrapara Monday. The annual census drive will continue for seven days.
According to a spokesperson, two separate teams with seven members each comprising forest officials, wildlife enthusiasts, ornithologists have been formed for the purpose.
It is pertinent to mention, the bird count reported from Bhitarkanika witnessed a spike of 9,252 last year while a total of 97,866 winged guests belonging to 10 different species were spotted in the national park in the previous census.
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Usually, the birds arrive at Bhitarkanika and return every year by the end of October, prior to arrival of winter birds migrating from Russia, Central Asia, Ladakh and Greater Himalayas.
The species like Khaparkhai, Anjana, Rani Baga, Panikua, Gendalia and Khaira throng Bhitarkanika during monsoon season. The migratory birds build nests on Guan, Bani and Kerua trees.
PNN
