PhD Students From PAU Get Taste Of Bird Census At Harike

Hands-on Research Experience at Harike Wetland

Two PhD scholars from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, recently participated in the annual bird census conducted at the Harike Wetland and Wildlife Sanctuary. The exercise offered the research scholars valuable field exposure and practical experience in avian population studies.

Part of the Asian Waterbird Census

The activity was carried out under the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) programme, an international initiative aimed at monitoring the population and diversity of waterbirds across wetlands. The census helps assess the ecological health of wetland ecosystems and supports long-term conservation planning.

Participation of Research Scholars

The participating scholars, Tishali Mehta and Sukhdeep Kaur, are doctoral students from the Department of Ornithology at PAU. They conducted bird identification and population recording under the guidance of Dr Tejdeep Kaur Kler, Head of the Department.

Monitoring Migratory and Resident Birds

During the census, the students recorded both resident bird species and migratory birds that visit the wetland during the winter season. Such data plays a crucial role in understanding migration patterns and changes in bird populations over time.

Significance of Harike Wetland

Located at the confluence of the Beas and Sutlej rivers, the Harike Wetland is known for its rich biodiversity. Every year, it attracts ornithologists, researchers, students, and conservationists from across the region for bird monitoring and ecological studies.

Contribution to Global Conservation Efforts

The census forms part of the International Waterbird Census, a global programme that provides scientific data to guide wildlife conservation efforts worldwide and strengthen wetland management policies.