9,250 birds of 76 species found in Koshi Tappu

BELBARI (MORANG), FEBRUARY 12: The number of birds in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve has increased this year, according to a recent bird count conducted in and around the Reserve.

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve Office reported that a total of 9,250 birds from 76 species were recorded during the Midwinter Waterbird Census 2025. This marks a significant increase compared to last year when 5,527 birds from 53 species were documented.

During the census, the Chakhewa species recorded the highest number, with 1,068 individuals, while the lowest counts were observed for white eagles, panichaha, chitrangada, and tiktike species, according to Senior Conservation Officer Ramdev Chaudhary.

Birendra Gautam, Chief of the National Trust for Conservation of Nature at the Koshi Conservation Centre, stated that the bird population in the wetlands could further increase with the provision of safe habitats, sufficient food, wetland conservation, and reduced human activity.

He also noted that migratory birds visit the wetlands from mid-September to mid-December and typically return after mid-April.

Located in the Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur districts, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve has become a prime habitat for birds.