Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Birding Atlas, which aims to document bird species in the city in different seasons over three years, finished its first leg on Sunday with 67,000 birds and 195 bird species. WWF-India led the survey in collaboration with Hyderabad Birding Pals and Deccan Birders.
The survey covered 11% of Hyderabad’s landscape, including woodlands, parks, lakes, and urban space. Among the top species observed were pigeons (7,634), egrets (3,576), and red-vented bulbuls (2,984). The red-vented bulbul and the purple sunbird were also the most widespread species.
“The most commonly sighted bird was the red-vented bulbul, and overall, it was a learning journey,” shared Samyooktha Manohar, a volunteer. Telangana’s state bird, the Indian roller, was spotted 26 times across 22 locations, mostly on city’s outskirts. Experts believe this suggests potential habitat loss in the urban core.
“The decline in agricultural lands is evident. These birds feed on insects that thrive in such habitats. Heavy pesticide usage could also be a factor,” said Farida Tampal, State Director, WWF-India. While volunteers gained insights, experts raised concerns over urbanization, pollution, and habitat destruction. tnn