NEWS – Bengaluru-based scientists report alarming decline in India’s bird population, based on birdwatching data from ~30,000 observers.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Data analysed includes 942 diurnal species; nocturnal species excluded.
• 204 species show long-term decline (pre-2000 comparison); 142 species show current annual decline.
• 178 species are classified as high conservation priority; 323 have moderate priority.
• Black-capped kingfisher shows the sharpest decline (86%) among winter migrants.
• Major declines seen in raptors, shorebirds, ducks, and wetland-dependent species.
• Birds with specialised diets (carrion, vertebrates, invertebrates) face >25% loss; fruit/nectar feeders remain stable or increased.
• Habitat-specific declines: grasslands, scrublands, and wetlands see steepest losses.
• Winter migratory species are more affected than resident species.
• Key long-term decliners: dunlin, Eurasian griffon, Eurasian curlew, tufted duck, pallid harrier, etc.
• Notable current annual decliners: sandwich tern, spotted redshank, northern pintail, among others.
• Research is part of State of India’s Birds 2023, supported by NCBS, NCF, and others.
• Scientists used new analytical frameworks to convert citizen-science data into scientific insights.
• Urgent need for conservation of wetlands and migratory bird habitats across Eurasia.