Bhubaneswar: The Hirakud wetland along the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary has recorded a significant increase in summer bird nesting this year, with wildlife officials documenting 19 species, nearly double the 10 species observed in the previous year.
Officials said nesting activity has expanded across 28 islands in the Hirakud reservoir, compared to 26 islands in 2025. Two new nesting sites—Tupa Dungri and Bhalu Dunguri—have also been added to the list this year, indicating an improvement in suitable breeding habitats within the wetland ecosystem.
According to the forest department, targeted conservation measures, including the removal of encroachments by fishermen from critical shoreline areas, have played a key role in safeguarding nesting zones and ensuring uninterrupted wildlife movement. Efforts are also underway to clear remaining encroached stretches along the reservoir.
Of the 19 bird species recorded for nesting, 10 key species include little tern, river tern, gull-billed tern, small pratincole, oriental pratincole, red-wattled lapwing, yellow-wattled lapwing, skimmer, little ringed plover, and greater painted snipe.
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Hirakud Wildlife Division, Anshu Pragyan Das, attributed the rise in nesting activity to sustained habitat protection and ecological management measures implemented in the wetland area.
She said conservation efforts have focused on protecting both nesting sites and the ecological conditions necessary for successful breeding. “Reed beds, grasses, shrubs, and trees used for nesting have been preserved. Cutting of vegetation during the breeding season has been restricted, while natural islands and shallow marshes have been maintained,” she added.
