Over 11.32 Lakh Birds of 196 Species Recorded at Odisha's Chilika Lake This Winter

A mid-winter census in Odisha's Chilika Lake recorded over 11.32 lakh birds across 196 species, marking a slight increase of 4,972 birds from last year. The Nalabana Bird Sanctuary saw its bird count rise from 3,43,226 of 92 species in 2025 to 3,97,587 of 106 species in 2026. Migratory birds also increased, with Northern Pintail, Eurasia wigeon, and Gadwal being the most numerous. Two new species, Plain Martin and Bengal Bush Lark, were identified. The census was conducted simultaneously across Odisha's 51 forest divisions, involving various experts and organizations.