New Delhi – The Yamuna floodplains, a crucial wintering habitat for migratory birds, played host to over 9,000 birds from 131 different species during the recent Asian Waterbird Census. However, this avian haven is facing increasing ecological threats, raising concerns among birders and conservationists.
The census, conducted by nearly 20 birders in collaboration with eBird, an online avian database, covered a 22-kilometer stretch of the Yamuna River floodplain from Wazirabad Barrage to Okhla Barrage. The survey revealed a diverse range of species, with black-headed gulls dominating the count at 2,500, followed by 1,700 barn swallows. Other notable sightings included 136 pied avocets, 112 ruddy shelducks, 108 white wagtails, and 90 house sparrows.
While the arrival of these winged visitors is a positive sign, the census also highlighted several alarming ecological threats impacting their habitat. Illegal sand mining, a persistent issue in the Yamuna floodplains, continues to destroy crucial feeding and roosting grounds for birds. Predation by stray dogs poses another significant threat, particularly to ground-nesting birds and their young.
The dumping of construction and demolition waste, along with plastic refuse, is also contributing to habitat degradation and water pollution. Birders noted habitat degradation due to the removal of aquatic reeds, cultivation on the riverbed, and open burning of waste along the bank. The declining water quality of the river, caused by sewage and agrochemical runoff, further exacerbates the challenges faced by these birds.
Pankaj Gupta, the Delhi-NCR project coordinator of the Asian Waterbird Census eBird, expressed concern over the future of these waterbirds. "If the condition of Yamuna floodplains is not improved, there is likely to be a decline in the number of waterbirds in future," Gupta stated.
Akash Gulalia, director of Amaltas Nature Walks, highlighted the increasing agricultural land on the riverbed and the rampant use of chemical fertilizers as massive threats to the river ecosystem. "Cutting and clearing of aquatic and riparian vegetation has left little space for these birds to breed. Illegal mining is another major issue," Gulalia added.
Beyond the Yamuna floodplains, birders are planning to extend their surveys to smaller wetlands in north Delhi, including Rohini, later this month. The census will also cover Sultanpur, Chandu, Jhanjrola, Bhindawas, Dhigal, Mandothi, Okhla Bird Sanctuary, Surajpur, Dhanuari and Dadri.
The Asian Waterbird Census is coordinated by Wetlands International, a global organization dedicated to the conservation and restoration of wetlands. The findings of the census serve as a crucial reminder of the importance of protecting the Yamuna floodplains and addressing the ecological threats that jeopardize the survival of these winged visitors. Urgent action is needed to mitigate these threats and ensure the long-term health of this vital ecosystem.
