Bhubaneswar/Sambalpur: This summer, the Hirakud wetland has transformed into a crucial breeding habitat, attracting thousands of migratory shorebirds, including Terns and Pratincoles. These birds have established nests across approximately 26 islands in the area. Observations reveal over ten species of waterbirds, such as River Terns, Gull-billed Terns, Little Terns, and various egrets, actively laying eggs and caring for their young. Notably, large colonies of River Terns and Pratincoles have been spotted on several islands, where mothers vigilantly protect their eggs and hatchlings from the intense summer heat, providing care for their fledglings throughout the day. The islands, which surface as the waters of the Hirakud reservoir recede in April, create an ideal environment—offering isolation from predators, minimal human interference, and a plentiful supply of fish. Among the flocks, five Indian Skimmers, classified as an IUCN Endangered species, have been sighted, although no nesting activity has been confirmed yet.

To safeguard these breeding sites and minimize disturbances, officials from the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary have implemented several measures. More than 100 red flags have been installed across the nesting islands to inform fishermen and raise awareness among local communities. A specialized ‘river patrol team’ has been established to maintain constant surveillance, while tourist boats are restricted from approaching the area, as their presence could lead to birds abandoning their nests, leaving eggs and chicks vulnerable to heat and predators, according to Anshu Pragyan Das, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Hirakud Wildlife Division. The birds construct shallow, camouflaged nests directly on sandy or rocky surfaces, making their eggs and chicks blend seamlessly into the surroundings, rendering them nearly invisible to the naked eye. The average incubation period for these birds ranges from 20 to 30 days, with the actual incubation lasting between 7 to 25 days. The mating, nesting, and chick-rearing activities commenced in April and are anticipated to continue for several months.

Shorebirds are among the most endangered avian groups, often falling prey to stray dogs, snakes, raptors, and other predators. The Hirakud islands provide a rare refuge, distanced from human activities, livestock, and land predators such as jackals, hyenas, wild dogs, and wolves from the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary and the nearby shoreline. To enhance conservation efforts, a dedicated team comprising nine squads, four frontline staff, and two speedboats has been trained to monitor bird behavior and nesting patterns. Additionally, members of the ‘Chadhei Club’ from Sambalpur have played a vital role in identifying nesting sites within human-influenced areas of the wetland and advocating for their protection, as noted by Das. A waterbird census conducted on January 18 recorded 377,000 migratory birds across the Hirakud Wetland, marking an increase of 35,000 from the previous year. This rising population underscores the ecological importance of Hirakud, which was designated a Ramsar Site by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in 2022.