Citizen science-led study says most species are declining but Indian peafowls and rock pigeons are doing well
A study based on 30 million field observations has identified that 178 wild bird species in India — including teals, sarus cranes and greater flamingos — need immediate attention.
The State of India’s Birds 2023 report finds that while Asian koel and Indian peafowl populations have increased significantly, most bird species are in decline, imperiled by habitat loss or degradation and climate change.
The study analyzed 942 bird species observed by 30,000 birdwatchers and submitted to the online platform eBird. 348 of these species had enough data over 25 years, and 60% of them showed long-term decline, while 40% of 359 species assessed since 2015 were currently declining.
Raptors such as vultures, migratory shorebirds, and ducks have declined the most. The report recommends urgently reassessing the IUCN status of 14 species, including the Indian roller, listed as a species of ‘least concern.’
The database was analyzed for trends and distribution by experts at 13 government institutions, conservation NGOs, and independent professionals.
217 species were stable or improving in numbers in the last 8 years, including ashy prinia, rock pigeon, Asian koel, and the country’s national bird-Indian peafowl. Other familiar species, including baya weaver and pied bushchat, were relatively stable.