Ujani Bird Count: March 2025 Highlights




On March 23, 2025, from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, Ujani Waterbird Count was conducted in collaboration with Solapur Forest Division. The survey was conducted at five locations (Diksal, Vitthalwadi, Kumbhargaon, Wangi, and Khatgaon). The data collected will be used to assess conservation status, track migratory patterns, and develop a management plan for the reservoir. The accompanying map provides a comprehensive view of the survey locations.

A total of 114 bird species were documented during the Ujani Waterbird Count in March. Of these, 22% were migratory, 69% were resident, and 9% were local migrants.
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The accompanying graph highlights the five survey locations in terms of species diversity. Among these sites, Wangi recorded the highest diversity with 79 species. Followed by both Diksal and Kumbhargaon with 72 species and Khatgaon documented 57 species and Vitthalwadi with 48 species.

The survey highlighted the presence of several species listed on the IUCN Red List. The Ujani reservoir and its associated habitats serve as critical stopover sites for migratory birds and breeding grounds for resident waterbird species. These findings emphasize the importance of protecting these vulnerable populations and their habitats.

The graph below showcases the top five most abundant waterbird species during the birdcount. The Black-tailed Godwit was recorded in the greatest number, followed by the Indian Cormorant, Eurasian Coot, Brown-headed Gull and Asian Openbill.

Below is the detailed checklist of bird species recorded during the March Bird Count 2025. This comprehensive list represents the incredible diversity of avian life observed during the survey and highlights the rich biodiversity of the region.
Species |
|---|
Blyth's Pipit (Anthus godlewskii) |
Paddyfield Pipit (Anthus rufulus) |
White Wagtail (Motacilla alba) |
White-browed Wagtail (Motacilla maderaspatensis) |
Western Yellow Wagtail (Motacilla flava) |
House Sparrow (Passer domesticus) |
Red Avadavat (Amandava amandava) |
Indian Silverbill (Euodice malabarica) |
Baya Weaver (Ploceus philippinus) |
Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus) |
Purple-rumped Sunbird (Leptocoma zeylonica) |
Siberian Stonechat (Saxicola maurus) |
Pied Bushchat (Saxicola caprata) |
Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica) |
The Ujani Waterbird Count owes its success to the enthusiastic and selfless contributions of all the participants. We thank everyone who participated in the workshop.
Illustration Credit: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/home
