Palakkad Bird Atlas 2.0 begins to map district’s avian diversity
A bird mapping study aimed at documenting the diversity of birds and their habitats in Palakkad district began on Sunday at Chittur, with the launch
A bird mapping study aimed at documenting the diversity of birds and their habitats in Palakkad district began on Sunday at Chittur, with the launch of the ‘Palakkad Bird Atlas Season 2.0’. The initiative is being carried out jointly by the Forest Department and environmental and bird-watching organisations in the district. The citizen science project seeks to collect comprehensive data on the district’s bird population across different ecosystems, including forests, agricultural landscapes and wetlands, to support future conservation efforts.
Sumesh Achuthan, MLA, inaugurated the survey, which aims to provide scientific insights into the ecological status of the district. Rajesh Radhakrishnan, president of the Natural History Society Palakkad (NHSP), who presided over the function, said the study would create a scientific foundation for biodiversity conservation and environmental planning. Vivek Sudhakaran, district coordinator of Palakkad Bird Atlas 2.0, explained the survey methodology and objectives. He said the project would enable bird watchers and volunteers to participate in systematic data collection and contribute to scientific research.
As part of the survey, Palakkad district has been divided into 410 sub-cells, each covering 1.1 sqkm. Teams comprising volunteers and bird watchers will conduct field observations in these areas over the coming days. The observations will be carried out over a year in two phases: during the monsoon and summer seasons. The organisers aim to complete the project within three years and prepare a comprehensive bird atlas of the district.
NHSP patron Krishnamurthy Master, secretary Lathika Anoth and District Panchayat biodiversity management committee member Lijo Panangadan were among those who attended the inaugural function. The organisers have invited more volunteers and bird enthusiasts to join the initiative and help document Palakkad’s rich bird diversity.
The BriefWire