Narayani River Area Sees Increase in Bird Species, Census Records 42 This Year

Madhyabindu, Nawalparasi – Jan 20: The latest waterbird census in the Narayani River area has recorded 42 bird species this year, showing a slight increase from last year’s 41 species.

DB Chaudhary, Bird Census Coordinator of Chitwan National Park’s West Sector, stated that the number of birds in the Narayani River and surrounding wetlands has also risen. A total of 12,887 birds across 42 species were observed during this year’s survey. In comparison, the census recorded 9,548 birds of 41 species in 2024 and 10,257 birds of 41 species in 2023.

“Not only has the diversity increased by one species, but the overall bird population has grown by 3,339 compared to last year,” said Chaudhary.

Nepal is home to 903 bird species, of which 162 are found in aquatic habitats. The census was conducted along five survey stretches: Sighrauli to Amaltari, Sighrauli to Pithauli, Pithauli to Amaltari, and Amaltari to Triveni Gandak Barrage.

Chaudhary highlighted that a large number of migratory birds come to the Narayani area from Siberia and other northern regions to escape harsh winter conditions, contributing significantly to the seasonal bird population.