Manipur: Bird Census in Ukhrul Records 73 Species and 803 Birds in Shirui, Phangrei
A large-scale bird census conducted in Manipur’s Ukhrul district has documented 73 bird species and over 800 birds, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the hill region bordering Myanmar.
The three-day biodiversity survey was carried out across the ecologically important Shirui and Phangrei landscapes as part of activities marking the International Day for Biological Diversity. Officials said the census recorded a total of 803 birds belonging to 73 different species during the exercise.
The initiative was jointly organised by the Ukhrul Forest Division and the Environmental Force at Grass Root Level (ENFOGAL). Students from the Department of Zoology at Pettigrew College also participated actively in the field survey and training sessions.
As part of the programme, participants were trained in bird identification techniques, avian census methods, and the use of digital citizen-science applications including Merlin Bird ID and eBird. The initiative aimed to promote scientific biodiversity monitoring while encouraging youth participation in environmental conservation.
The census team was led by Patrick Singh of ENFOGAL along with conservationists and volunteers including Gaikhuanlung Ngaomei, Ersilla Jajo, Christian Erni, Shunringla Rungsung, and student volunteers from the college.
Forest officials stated that the information gathered during the survey would help create a baseline database for future monitoring of bird populations and ecological health in the Shirui and Phangrei areas, which are known for their rich flora and fauna.
Divisional Forest Officer Laishram Gitla stressed the importance of involving local communities and students in conservation activities. She said the programme was designed to inspire environmental awareness among young people and encourage them to take active roles in protecting the region’s biodiversity.
“Conducting the census alongside the International Day for Biological Diversity is intended to nurture environmental responsibility among the youth and help develop future conservation ambassadors,” she stated.
Officials further noted that community-driven scientific initiatives like the bird census could play a crucial role in strengthening long-term conservation efforts in biodiversity-rich regions such as Ukhrul district.
