Shillong, Jan 31: The Fifth Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2026 has recorded 140 birds belonging to 13 different species in the wetlands of Meghalaya.
The census was carried out in Mawlyndep, Umbir, Umsaw Khwan, Umniuh Khwan and Orchid Resort Viewpoint, covering the wetland areas of Umiam Lake, Ri-Bhoi district.
Notable species identified during the census included the Great Cormorant, Little Cormorant, Great Crested Grebe and Little Grebe.
Other species observed included the Oriental Darter, White Wagtail, Intermediate Egret, Little Egret, Common Kingfisher and Pipit species.
The Waterbird Census 2026 was organised by Meghalaya Biodiversity Board in collaboration with Forest Department, Meghalaya State Wetlands Authority, Environmental Science and Zoology Department, Shillong College, stakeholders, research scholars, interns and members of the Biodiversity Management Committees.
This citizen- science program, which is conducted annually between January and February, supports the conservation and management of wetlands and waterbirds worldwide.
Volunteers across Asia and Australasia visit wetlands in their respective countries to count waterbirds, in partnership with various National Waterbird Census programs.
The findings highlight the rich biodiversity of the region and underscore the critical role of wetland conservation in maintaining healthy ecosystems for waterbirds.
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.
