Bhubaneswar: In a significant move, the Odisha Forest Department has for the first time equipped two flamingos with solar-powered GPS-GSM trackers to monitor their movement.
This initiative, announced by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) – Wildlife Prem Kumar Jha on Saturday, aims to track the migratory patterns of these magnificent birds.
Prem Kumar Jha shared visuals of the flamingos on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “For the first time, a GPS-GSM solar-powered tracker was fitted on 2 Greater Flamingos at Nalabana, Chilika, by Odisha Wildlife Org & @wii_india led by Dr. Suresh Kumar. This will track movements and migration patterns of these majestic birds. #Chilika.”
The trackers were fitted on two large flamingos at Chilika Lake on Saturday. Chilika, a renowned haven for migratory birds on India’s eastern coast, serves as a temporary home for the flamingos.
For the first time, a GPS-GSM solar-powered tracker was fitted on 2 Greater Flamingo at Nalabana, Chilika, by Odisha Wildlife Org & @wii_india led by Dr. Suresh Kumar. This will track movements and migration pattern of these majestic birds. #Chilika@ForestDeptt @CMO_Odisha pic.twitter.com/s1MvBJGA7a
— Prem Kumar Jha (@Prem_CWLWOdisha) January 11, 2025
The primary goal of this project is to gain deeper insights into the migration routes and behaviors of these avian visitors.
The solar-powered trackers combine GPS (Global Positioning System) and GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) technology, offering real-time data transmission.
This technology will enable the Forest Department to better understand the flamingos’ travel routes and their destinations across India and beyond.
