Avifauna of Bhitarkanika Mangroves, India

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive list of the birds of Bhitarkanika with special reference to globally threatened species occurring here. It is based, in large measure, on our observations throughout the protected area during August 2004 - December 2006 together with unpublished records contributed by other observers. A total of 263 bird species belonging to 63 families have been recorded. A total of 79 birds are added to the existing checklist published in 1997. An account about one of India's largest breeding colony of water birds, and conservation importance of lesser known Sathbahaya wetland which serves as an important stopover for birds migrating to Chilka has also been mentioned. © ZOO; 2007.