Coringa and Adjoining Wetlands: A Prime Feeding Ground for Migratory Birds + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
The Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS) and its adjoining wetlands in the Godavari estuary have emerged as a vital feeding habitat for 106 bird species, including nearly 70 migratory species. The findings were revealed during the Asian Waterbird Census-2025, conducted by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). The survey recorded a remarkable count of 39,725 birds, underscoring the ecological significance of this region in Andhra Pradesh.
Key Takeaways
Diverse Avian Population: The census identified 106 species of birds, including 56 species of waders, in the Coringa and adjoining wetlands.
Threatened Species: Among the recorded species, three are classified as Endangered—Black-bellied tern (Sterna acuticauda), Great knot (Calidris tenuirostris), and Indian skimmer (Rynchops albicollis). The Common pochard (Aythya ferina) was identified as the only Vulnerable species, while 11 species fell under the Near Threatened category.
Migratory Patterns: Most migratory species, such as the Great knot, travel from Siberia, Russia, China, and Mongolia to spend the winter in the Godavari estuary, which lies in the Asian Flyway Zone.
Prime Habitats: Bhairavapalem and Etimoga are two key winter destinations where large congregations of migratory birds have been observed. Notably, a Great knot tagged in Russia was sighted at Bhairavapalem after traveling approximately 7,500 km.
International Collaboration: The census data is being shared with global organizations studying migratory bird patterns to aid conservation efforts and track endangered species' movements.
Do You Know?
The Godavari estuary supports the feeding of nearly 90,000 birds annually, making it an ecologically significant region for avian biodiversity.
The Indian skimmer, one of the endangered species found in this area, is known for its unique feeding behavior, where it skims the water surface with its elongated lower beak.
The presence of a high diversity of migratory birds is a critical criterion for recognizing a wetland as a Ramsar Site of international importance.
Static Points about Wetlands of India
Ramsar Sites in India: As of 2025, India has 80 designated Ramsar Sites, wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Andhra Pradesh, this sanctuary is the second-largest stretch of mangrove forests in India and serves as a crucial breeding and feeding ground for numerous species.
Importance of Wetlands: Wetlands serve as biodiversity hotspots, support migratory bird populations, regulate climate, and act as natural buffers against coastal erosion and extreme weather events.
Conservation Initiatives: Several Indian wetlands, including Chilika Lake, Keoladeo National Park, and Sundarbans, are protected under the Ramsar Convention to maintain ecological balance and sustain wildlife.
Conclusion
The findings of the Asian Waterbird Census-2025 highlight the critical role of Coringa and its adjoining wetlands in supporting avian diversity. With significant populations of migratory and endangered birds relying on these habitats for survival, conservation efforts must be strengthened. Experts advocate for recognizing Coringa as a Ramsar Site, a move that would enhance global conservation initiatives and ensure the long-term protection of this vital ecosystem.