Asian Openbill Stork population plummets in Keleghai river basin

The Asian Openbill Stork (Anastomus oscitans), a species highly dependent on wetland ecosystems, is facing a drastic decline in population along the Keleghai River basin in the undivided Midnapore district.

- BISWABRATA GOSWAMI

Research conducted by Dr. Mrinmay Mandal of Vidyasagar University has revealed an alarming decrease in the bird's numbers, raising concerns about habitat destruction and ecological imbalance.

Historically, the Asian Openbill Stork has migrated to the Keleghai region from other parts of Asia, nesting along the riverbanks in the pre-monsoon season and departing after seven to eight months. The bird is easily recognisable by its gray-white plumage and is widely found across Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. However, its once-thriving colonies are now shrinking at an unprecedented rate.