Chandigarh: A monthly bird census across Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary will monitor avian diversity and assess human impact on local habitats.The survey aims to track changes in bird populations and habitat usage, identify vulnerable zones, and go as input in conservation strategies. The Chandigarh forest and wildlife department will collaborate with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), for this study.Officials said data gathered could provide a scientific foundation for future land-use and development decisions surrounding the sanctuary. Department officials expressed concern that urban growth and human activity might alter migratory patterns, potentially driving birds toward quieter water bodies nearby.Regular monitoring will help establish whether shifts are occurring ahead of the winter migration season. Local residents will be invited to participate as volunteers.The WII’s experts will provide training in scientific monitoring techniques, including line-transect and point-count methods. The instruction will cover bird identification via plumage, flight patterns, and calls, as well as the use of optical gear and digital applications for recording observations and coordinates.Volunteers will work alongside departmental teams to conduct the counts. A wildlife census conducted by the department last year recorded more than 132 bird species within the sanctuary.
