Karnala Bird Sanctuary gears up for 24-hour wildlife census on May 1

Preparations for the annual wildlife census at Karnala Bird Sanctuary are now complete. The survey will take place over 24 hours on May 1, involving teams of staff, volunteers, and wildlife experts. Three observation posts, known as machans, have been set up at key water sources. These include Mayur Bandhara, the pond near the information centre, and an artificial waterhole at Apta. Trap cameras have also been installed to record animal movement during the census.

Three teams, made up of 18 forest department officials, social organisation members, and trained snake rescuers, will conduct the survey. Their task is to monitor both bird and mammal populations across the sanctuary.

Over 50 bird species, including leafbirds, magpie robins, and hornbills, have been documented in the area. However, larger wildlife such as leopards, barking deer, and hares are now rarely spotted. Officials attribute this decline to growing human interference, farmhouse developments, and habitat disruption. The census aims to provide updated data on the sanctuary’s wildlife populations. Results will help assess the impact of environmental pressures on the ecosystem. Findings are expected to guide future conservation efforts at Karnala.