Birds start nesting in Bhitarkanika

KENDRAPADA: A large number of birds have arrived in Bhitarakanika National Park in Kendrapada district for for nesting in Bagagahana, the heronry, this monsoon. "We have sighted 10 species," said forest range officer Akshaya Kumar Nayak.

The Bagagahana spread over 20 acre is surrounded by the Bhitarkanika river in the East, Suajhore creek in the North and Pitijhore creek in the South. Last year, the forest officers sighted 91,544 birds, including 51,977 hatchlings, in the heronry.

Ten species of storks, herons and egrets were found nesting in Bagagahana, the most secluded part of Bhitarkanika.

Among these are open billed stork, little cormorant, median egret, large egret, little egret, purple heron, grey heron, darters, white Ibis and cattle egret," added the forest officer.

Bhitarkanika also offers sanctuary to many wild animals, particularly birds who thrive in and around water. Abundant fish in the river and creeks and distance from human habitation has made it a congenial breeding place for thousands of birds.

"Crocodiles and water monitors also come to Bagagahana to feast on birds," added the forest officer.