Srinagar, Feb 12 (KNO): The 2026 Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) began across Kashmir on Thursday, covering 27 major wetlands as part of a global exercise to monitor migratory bird populations and assess wetland health, officials said.
The annual census, conducted between December and March in different regions, is being organised in Kashmir by the Department of Wildlife Protection in coordination with the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA).
Deputy Conservator, WUCMA, Altaf Hussain told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the exercise aims to record migratory bird patterns and estimate their numbers across key wetlands, including Hokersar, Wular Lake, Shallabugh and Haigam.
“Basically, the exercise is called the Asian Waterbird Census. It is a global initiative where we try to understand and record the pattern of migratory birds and their migration,” Hussain said.
This year, 27 wetlands have been identified for the census, with 58 designated counting points across these sites. “For example, in Wular Lake alone, we have 10 different points. Teams visit each point and record species, numbers and location details on properly designed data sheets,” he said.
Around 58 teams, accompanied by bird experts, were deployed to the field on Thursday. The collected data sheets will be analysed by departmental experts to arrive at an estimated number of migratory birds visiting Kashmir’s wetlands this season.
An orientation programme was held in Srinagar a day earlier, drawing over 350 participants, including students and volunteers from institutions such as the University of Kashmir, SKUAST, Amar Singh College, SP College and Government Degree College Ganderbal, besides representatives of non-governmental organisations.
“We train volunteers on how to conduct field visits, record data, and follow standard protocols. They are briefed about the do’s and don’ts while estimating bird populations,” Hussain said.
He said most migratory birds visiting Kashmir originate from Siberia, Central Asian countries such as Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Mongolia, and parts of eastern Europe. Harsh winters in their native habitats, where temperatures can drop to minus 20 to minus 25 degrees Celsius, freeze water bodies and reduce food availability, forcing them to migrate.
“Kashmir is primarily a stopover site. Birds rest here for days or even months before moving towards warmer plains. They cross the Himalayas, which is a challenging journey, and use our wetlands to rest and re-energise,” he said.
The Deputy Conservator added that bird numbers serve as an important ecological indicator. “If migratory birds are staying in good numbers, it suggests that wetlands are in reasonably healthy condition. Though challenges remain, interventions over the past several years have shown positive impact,” he said.
The census findings are expected to contribute to long-term conservation planning and wetland management strategies in the region—(KNO)