Odisha is taking a major step toward strengthening wildlife research and citizen participation with Odisha Bihanga Utsav, a large-scale bird survey initiative being conducted in two of the state’s most important protected landscapes — Satkosia Tiger Reserve and Similipal Tiger Reserve.
This initiative not only highlights Odisha’s rich avian diversity but also positions birdwatching and eco-tourism as powerful tools for conservation awareness. 
Source: Odisha wildlife
What Is Odisha Bihanga Utsav?
Bihanga means bird in Odia, and Bihanga Utsav is a state-supported bird documentation and survey programme aimed at:
-
Mapping bird diversity
-
Strengthening long-term ecological data
-
Encouraging citizen science participation
-
Promoting conservation-linked eco-tourism
The survey brings together birders, wildlife researchers, forest officials, students, and nature enthusiasts.
Survey Locations
1. Satkosia Tiger Reserve
-
Located along the Mahanadi Gorge
-
Mosaic of forests, riverine habitats, and grasslands
-
Important habitat for migratory and resident birds
🗓️ Last date of registration: 10 January 2026
2. Similipal Tiger Reserve
-
Part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity corridor
-
Dense sal forests, meadows, and streams
-
One of India’s richest bird landscapes
🗓️ Last date of registration: 20 January 2026
How to Register for the Bird Survey
Interested participants can register online through the official Odisha Forest Department portal:
🔗 Registration link:
https://wildlife.odisha.gov.in/bird-census-registration
(Participants may also register by scanning the official QR code shared by the department.)
Why This Bird Survey Is Important
🧠1. Conservation Science
Birds are indicator species. Their population trends reflect:
-
Forest health
-
Water quality
-
Climate change impacts
This survey will help update species checklists and identify priority conservation zones.
2. Strengthening Eco-Tourism
By promoting birding in Satkosia and Similipal:
-
Low-impact tourism is encouraged
-
Local communities benefit from nature tourism
-
Awareness replaces exploitation
3. Citizen Participation
Odisha Bihanga Utsav bridges the gap between:
-
Scientists and citizens
-
Conservation policy and public awareness
Birdlife Highlights of Satkosia & Similipal
Likely sightings include:
-
Hornbills
-
Raptors and eagles
-
Woodpeckers
-
Flycatchers and warblers
-
Wetland birds along river systems
Both reserves are also crucial stopovers for migratory birds.
Birding & Responsible Travel Tips
Participants are encouraged to:
-
Follow forest department guidelines
-
Avoid playback calls
-
Maintain silence near nesting sites
-
Respect tribal and forest communities
-
Use binoculars instead of approaching birds
FAQ & People Also Ask (PAA)
What is Odisha Bihanga Utsav?
It is a state-supported bird survey initiative aimed at documenting bird diversity in key protected areas of Odisha.
Who can participate in the bird survey?
Birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, researchers, students, and nature lovers can register.
Is prior birding experience required?
Basic birding knowledge is helpful but not mandatory. Enthusiasts are welcome.
Where is the registration link?
Registrations are open at the official Odisha Forest Department website.
Why are Satkosia and Similipal important for bird surveys?
Both are biodiversity-rich tiger reserves with diverse habitats supporting hundreds of bird species.
Conclusion: Birds as Guardians of Odisha’s Forests
Odisha Bihanga Utsav is more than a bird count — it is a reminder that conservation thrives when people participate. By opening the forests of Satkosia and Similipal to structured citizen science, Odisha is setting a strong example for community-driven wildlife protection.
For bird lovers, this is a rare opportunity to observe, document, and protect some of eastern India’s most remarkable avian habitats.
0 comments:
Post a Comment