Tirupati’s ‘Garuda Atlas’ records 55,000 birds, 274 species

The fifth edition of ‘Garuda Atlas’, a bird mapping exercise in and around Tirupati, was recently concluded with positive results. More than 55,000 birds were recorded by volunteers and researchers during the survey and 274 species were documented in the Tirupati district.

During a recent bird walk at ‘Divyaramam’, participants spotted the ‘Indian Yellow Tit’ for the first time in the region. The closest identified location was the northern parts of Nallamala and MM Hills.

The work was first launched in 2022 as the ‘Tirupati Bird Atlas’, but was soon converted to the Garuda Atlas to align with the cultural identity of the city and encourage wider public participation.

The project is being implemented by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER Tirupati) in partnership with Tirupati Nature Society (TNS) and Andhra Pradesh Forest Department.

Shaheen Falcon, a small and powerful bird of prey that lives on the cliffs, was also spotted on the way to Tirumala ghat, which serves as a perfect habitat for such species. Similarly, Yellow-throated Bulbul, Red-necked Hawk, Slate-breasted Rail and Black Eagle were among the other important species recorded.

Dr. at IISER-Tirupati. Researchers at Robin Lab said the presence of such species highlights the ecological richness and health of the Tirupati landscape.

The final edition of five research cycles was coordinated by Hareesha from IISER and supported by S. Pushya Mitra and P. Ramachandra Reddy.