Kendrapara, Apr 29 (BNP): A census of the Mangrove Pitta was conducted across five ranges of the Rajnagar Mangrove Forest Division, covering important coastal mangrove habitats in Kendrapara and Jagatsinghpur districts.
According to Divisional Forest Officer Vardhraj Gaonkar, the survey was carried out using both direct and indirect observation methods across multiple mangrove patches in the region. The exercise was conducted to assess the presence and distribution of the species in its natural habitat.
A total of 70 trained enumerators, organised into 35 teams, participated in the census exercise conducted on Sunday.
The primary objective of the study was to collect scientific data on the bird’s distribution, habitat conditions, breeding patterns, and behavioural traits. The survey will also serve as a baseline for future population monitoring and conservation planning.
Officials said such assessments are important for understanding biodiversity trends in fragile mangrove ecosystems and for strengthening long-term conservation strategies in coastal Odisha.
The data collected is expected to support ongoing efforts to protect wetland and mangrove habitats that are crucial for a variety of bird species, including the Mangrove Pitta.
