
MANJUNATH NAYAK:
Bird Survey in Gadag district reveals rich avian diversity of 232 species in this region. Recently, the Gadag Bird Survey 2025 was held from January 20-23 which concluded on a highly successful note, marking a significant step in biodiversity conservation and research. This survey, will in fact, support the conservation of Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary and Magadikere Bird Conservation Reserve in Gadag district of Karnataka, India.
The Bird Survey was carried out in the three ranges of Gadag, Mundargi and Shirahatti of the Gadag Forest Division. The Bird Survey covered diverse habitats including forested areas, and non-Forest areas including wetlands, and agricultural lands.

The survey recorded an impressive 232 bird species, with 35 being identified as migratory. The teams also documented several rare species in the region, such as: Grey-necked Bunting, Common Redstart, Pacific Golden Plover, Greylag Goose, Bar-headed Goose, Forest Wagtail, Greater Spotted Eagle, Steppe Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Black-tailed Godwit, Baillon’s Crake, and Ruddy Shelduck.
This survey reflects the rich avian diversity of the Gadag region and underscores its ecological importance. The participation of students and volunteers alongside forest officials demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in advancing conservation goals.

This collaborative initiative was taken up between the Gadag Forest Division, Karnataka Forest Department and Kuvempu University, Shivamogga. It was held under the expert supervision of staff and officers of Gadag Forest Division.
The survey involved the collective effort of approximately 120 participants, including 35 wildlife students, volunteers, and a majority of forest staff and officers. The participants were divided into 15 teams, each comprising two students and two forest officers.

Highlighting the importance of such initiatives in fostering awareness and scientific understanding of biodiversity, Santosh Kumar Kenchappanavar, DCF, Gadag said, “This survey not only highlights the ecological wealth of Gadag but also serves as a crucial step in identifying conservation priorities and promoting community involvement.”
Vijaya Kumar, Chairman, Department of Wildlife and Management, Kuvempu University said, “Census of birds is very important for conservation and it is a part of wildlife census. Ornithology within the Kappatagudda forest of Gadag district and survey of birds in the area will determine the density of bird species diversity and help create awareness among the public and students.”

Kartik N J, IBCN state coordinator, BNHS said, “As a knowledge partner, I am extremely happy to contribute to the Gadag Bird Survey 2025, a landmark initiative aimed at documenting the rich avian diversity of this region.”
He further said, “This survey is not only crucial for understanding bird populations and their habitats but also serves as a vital step toward strengthening conservation efforts following the Ramsar declaration of Magadi Kere. By engaging local communities, students, and forest staff, this initiative fosters awareness and lays the foundation for sustainable biodiversity management.”

The findings of the Gadag Bird Survey 2025 will contribute to further research and conservation planning even as ensuring the continued protection of the region’s unique biodiversity.
(Manjunath Nayak, writer is a biodiversity researcher.)