Four-day statewide bird census records species across Karnataka

Karnataka Bird Monitoring Network held a statewide bird census across 30 districts from October 30 to November 2, 2026. Birdwatchers recorded species and submitted checklists through an app. Uttara Kannada recorded the most species on each of the first three days. Mysuru recorded the most on the fourth day, with 222 species. Udupi recorded 16 species not seen in the other surveyed districts. The census also recorded the European Roller in 20 districts. In Davanagere, observers reported between 64 and 101 species per day. Fewer migratory birds were seen in Davanagere.

Notable Points

• Historical citizen bird monitoring: Wells Woodbridge Cooke started the North American Bird Phenology Program in 1883 to collect bird-migration records; it may have been the earliest collective US effort of its kind. The Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count began in 1900, and its observations can support bird-population and biodiversity indicators.
• Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary: Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary is on a small island in the Tunga River and is visited by migratory birds.