Asian Waterbird Census to Survey Coringa Sanctuary in January

The 40th Asian Waterbird Census and the 60th International Waterbird Census will be conducted at the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary and its adjoining wetlands on January 10 and 11, 2026. The exercise will document the diversity and population trends of migratory and resident waterbirds at one of India’s most important coastal ecosystems.

Multi-Agency Collaboration for Census

The census will be organised by the Andhra Pradesh Forest Department in collaboration with the Bombay Natural History Society, the Wildlife Institute of India, and the World Wide Fund for Nature. This coordinated effort reflects the importance of Coringa as a key wetland habitat on India’s east coast.

Milestone Survey at Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary

This will be the tenth waterbird census conducted at the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary and its surrounding wetlands. Located near the Godavari delta, the sanctuary is known for its extensive mangrove forests and rich avian diversity, making it a crucial site for long-term monitoring of migratory waterbirds.

Focus on Endangered and Migratory Species

The census will pay special attention to four key migratory species: the endangered Indian Skimmer, the endangered Great Knot, the Near Threatened Eurasian Curlew, and the Eurasian Oystercatcher. All four species arrive at the Godavari estuary during winter for feeding, highlighting the ecological value of the region.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The Asian Waterbird Census is an annual international monitoring programme.
• Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary is located near the Godavari estuary in Andhra Pradesh.
• The Indian Skimmer and Great Knot are endangered migratory birds.
• The Godavari estuary is a rare site where Indian Skimmer and Great Knot are seen together.

Community Participation and Conservation Value

Coringa Sanctuary Wildlife Ranger Vara Prasad stated that local birdwatchers would be encouraged to participate in the census. Their involvement is expected to strengthen data collection and promote community awareness. The findings will contribute to global waterbird databases and support conservation planning for threatened migratory species along India’s eastern coastline.