Synchronised Terrestrial Bird Census Across TN On Feb. 14,15

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Forest Department will conduct the Synchronized Terrestrial Bird Census 2026 in all forest divisions in the state on February 14 and 15, aiming to strengthen scientific data on terrestrial bird populations and plug gaps in the early migratory season.

Recognized as a major biodiversity hotspot for resident and migratory birds, Tamil Nadu has undertaken various conservation initiatives, including the Hornbill Conservation Centre, the Raptor Research Foundation at the Advanced Wildlife Conservation Institute and the International Bird Conservation Center at Marakkannam. A State level exercise is conducted every year to monitor bird abundance and diversity.

In 2025, the terrestrial bird census covered all 38 districts and documented 401 species in 1,093 terrestrial locations, with a total number of 2.3 lakh birds recorded between March 15-16.

This year’s census will be carried out using the line transect method in at least 25 locations in each forest section, with the length of each transect being 2 km. Both direct census and acoustic survey techniques will be used to provide comprehensive coverage across habitats.

Experienced bird watchers, volunteers, NGOs, students, photographers and Ministry of Forestry officials are expected to participate. Interested volunteers were asked to register in advance at the relevant forest offices via the designated QR code.