234 bird species have been identified in a large survey carried out in Attapadi by 80 birders from three states . The Natural History Society of Palakkad conducted a bird survey in the territory that fell under forest divisions in Attapadi taluk .
Kochi, India: 234 bird species have been identified in a large survey carried out in Attapadi by 80 birders from three states.From Dec 2-5, the Natural History Society of Palakkad (NHSP), in association with the Kerala forest department, conducted a bird survey in the territory that fell under forest divisions in Attapadi taluk.In the area, there have been threatened or near-threatened species been recorded, such as Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Green Imperial Pigeon, Asian Woolly-necked Stork, Oriental Darter, Rufous-bellied Eagle, Pallid Harrier, Great Hornbill, Malabar Grey Hornbill, Grey-headed Bulbul, and Yellow-throated Bulbul.Birders also observed the critically endangered Red Headed Vulture, which is also a species of significance in the survey, according to organizers.
For each quadrant, a predetermined trail of 2.5 kilometers was selected, and a two-member team surveyed the trail, observing birds at 250 meters for 15 minutes each.This detailed survey of Attappadi resulted in the identification of rare birds that had not been identified here before.This detailed systematic survey of birds over the years will help us understand trends in bird population and the identification of conservation priorities, according to Praveen V, the NHSP president, who led the analysis.Long-term bird monitoring studies in such transitioning habitats are needed to see how populations respond to climate change, according to Pramod P, principal scientist for SACON.The survey is proposed to be carried out three times a year and should be repeated annually.