Naxalbari, 02nd September: The population of the Black-headed Ibis has seen a significant decline over the past years. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified this species as near-threatened. In response, a census has been initiated by the forest department and various organizations to better understand and address the situation.
According to reports, Naxalbari is the sole habitat and breeding ground for the Black-headed Ibis in North Bengal. The birds breed from March to September and raise their young before migrating for the winter. The Himalayan Nature and Adventure Foundation, Paschim Banga Vigyan Mancha, and Kurseong Forest Division have commenced the census to address the decline in the population of the birds.
Over the past two years, 200 and 240 of the birds have been found. However, the species of birds are still endangered. Animesh Basu, coordinator of the Himalayan Nature and Adventure Foundation, emphasized that effective conservation efforts could preserve the bird’s population.
The migratory Black-headed Ibis was first spotted in 1993 and had not been seen for a while before they reappeared in recent years. The Paschim Banga Vigyan Mancha is actively working to increase their numbers. The forest department has indicated that efforts are underway to address the decline in population of the Black-headed Ibis and to protect their habitat.