Shillong: The Fourth Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2025 was successfully conducted in Meghalaya, recording a total of 173 waterbirds from 14 different species.
The census was organized by the Meghalaya Biodiversity Board, in collaboration with the Office of the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Khasi Hills Wildlife Division, Shillong.
The census took place on February I I, 2025 and was carried out across five key sites: Mawlyndep. Umbir, Lad Umsaw, Dew Saw and LumPongdeng, covering the wetland areas of Umiam Lake, Ri-Bhoi District.
The activity started with a short meeting at Lum Nehru Park, Umiam, Ri-Bhoi District, provided an opportunity for experts to discuss the importance of the AWC, as part of the global International Waterbird Census (I WC). This citizen-science program, conducted annually between January and February, is crucial in supporting the global conservation and management of wetlands and waterbird species. Volunteers from across Asia and Australasia participated in this effort, counting waterbirds in wetlands within their respective countries, in collaboration with National Waterbird Census programs.
The event saw the participation of a distinguished group of individuals, including Julius R.B. Blah, RFO of Lum Nehru Park, Khasi Hills Wildlife Division, Shillong. Scientists and Technical team from Meghalaya Biodiversity Board, Forest Department and Meghalaya State Wetland Authority also contributed to the success of the event. Local Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs) from nearby areas, including Umniuh Khwan, Mawlyndep and Umsaw Khwan were also involved in the census.
Dr. Dipankar Lahkar from Aaranyak and Nibir Medhi, Senior Biologist, 0/0 PCCF & HOFF, played a key role as experts, ensuring the accuracy and depth of the Waterbird census.
During the 2025 census, a total of 173 Waterbirds were recorded, representing 14 different species. Notable species identified during the census included the Great Cormorant, Great Crested Grebe and White Wagtail. Other species observed included the Grey
Heron, Indian Pond Heron, Little Cormorant, Pipit species, Oriental Darter, Little Grebe, Intermediate Egret, Little Egret, Common Kingfisher, Little Ringed Plover and Red-wattled Lapwing.
The findings highlight the rich biodiversity of the region and underscore the critical role of wetland conservation in maintaining healthy ecosystems for waterbirds.
The AWC is a pan of a global initiative designed to monitor and conserve waterbird populations across Asia and Australasia. The data gathered through these annual censuses contribute to the management and protection of wetlands, supporting efforts to safeguard these vital habitats for migratory and resident waterbirds.
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