TN to conduct synchronised bird census in 2 phases

THE Tamil Nadu Forest Department is set to conduct its annual state-level bird census later this month, aligning with the migratory bird season that runs from October to April.

- SV KRISHNA CHAITANYA @ Chennai

This year's census will monitor bird populations across diverse habitats and aims to establish baseline population data, avoid duplicate counts and track trends over time. The census will occur in two phases. Phase 1, focussing on wetland birds in inland and coastal areas, will cover 1,150 spots on March 8-9. Phase 2, targeting terrestrial birds inside and outside protected areas, will span 900 spots on March 15-16. A minimum of 25 locations per forest division will be surveyed to ensure comprehensive long-term