CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu forest department will conduct a synchronised terrestrial bird census across all forest divisions on February 14 and 15, to strengthen baseline data on bird populations and bridge information gaps during the early phase of the migratory season.
According to Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden Rakesh Kumar Dogra, the census will be carried out in a minimum of 25 locations in each forest division using the line transect method, with each transect measuring 2 km.
Both direct count and acoustic survey methods will be employed to ensure comprehensive documentation of bird species across varied habitats.
The State-wide exercise will involve experienced birdwatchers, Forest Department personnel, volunteers, NGO representatives and professional photographers.
Volunteers, including school and college students willing to participate, have been asked to register with the concerned offices in advance.
Tamil Nadu has been prioritising bird conservation and monitoring, given its importance as a biodiversity hotspot for both resident and migratory species.
The State has rolled out several flagship initiatives, including the Hornbill Conservation Centre, the Raptor Research Foundation at the Advanced Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC), and the International Bird Conservation Centre at Marakkanam.
In the previous State-level terrestrial bird census conducted on March 15 and 16, 2025, the survey covered 1,093 terrestrial locations across all 38 districts.
A total of 401 bird species, including migratory and resident populations, with the terrestrial bird count estimated at 2.3 lakh were recorded.
Officials said the synchronised exercise is expected to generate robust scientific data to support long-term monitoring and conservation planning across the State.