Archive · 1 Jan 2026
Winter Migratory Bird Census Begins in West Burdwan
A big count of birds is happening in West Burdwan, India.
Every year, birds from cold places like Tibet and Siberia fly to warmer places like India to escape the cold.
This year, the count started on December 1, 2025, and will last until February 28, 2026.
People from the forest department and groups like Wild Tuskers and Wings are helping.
They have seen many birds like the Ruddy Shelduck and Siberian Rubythroat.
They think more birds will come this year because it's very cold in their home places.
They are also working to keep the birds safe by cleaning up the water and making sure people don't hurt the birds.
This is important because it helps the birds and also keeps the environment healthy.
The winter migratory bird census in West Burdwan district began on 1 December 2025 and will continue until 28 February 2026.
Experts expect record numbers of migratory birds due to severe winter conditions in South Bengal and improved habitats.
Key species spotted include Ruddy Shelduck, Siberian Rubythroat, Little Ringed Plover, and others.
Efforts to restore habitats include banning DJ sound systems, removing water hyacinths, and raising awareness against poaching.
The census is being conducted across multiple locations, including the Damodar riverbed and various wetlands and parks.
- Who
- West Bengal Forest Department, Wild Tuskers, Wings
- What
- Winter migratory bird census
- When
- 1 December 2025 to 28 February 2026
- Where
- West Burdwan district, West Bengal
- Why
- To count and monitor migratory birds arriving in the region due to severe winter conditions in their native habitats
- Census Duration
- 1 December 2025 to 28 February 2026
- Organizers
- West Bengal Forest Department, Wild Tuskers, Wings
- Key Species Spotted
- Ruddy Shelduck, Siberian Rubythroat, Little Ringed Plover, Kentish Plover, Temminck’s Stint, Bluethroat, Small Pratincole, Citrine Wagtail, White Wagtail, Yellow Wagtail
- Expected Bird Count
- Over 300,000
- Census Locations
- Damodar riverbed, ISP Burnpur wetlands, Kanksha in Durgapur, Gunjan Ecological Park, Colonel Singh Park, Boat Club in Chittaranjan, Durgapur Barrage