The recent weeks saw the first-ever census of the Mangrove Pitta bird, a species native to eastern India’s coastal regions. This unique bird census was conducted in two coastal districts of Odisha, Kendrapara and Jagatsingpur. The Mangrove Pitta’s presence in these regions is limited to a few pockets, including Bhitarkanika in Odisha and Sundarbans in West Bengal.
Understanding the Mangrove Pitta
The Mangrove Pitta bird (Pitta megarhyncha) is an intriguing species that prefers ground foraging and resting on trees. This bird primarily inhabits India’s coastal mangrove forests. They are adept at locating their food on the forest floor, making them skilled foragers. They can be found at rest in the trees of the mangroves, earning them the tag of tree resters.
The IUCN Status of Mangrove Pitta
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed the species and classified it as Near Threatened. This categorization hints at the potential threat the species faces due to environmental changes or anthropogenic activities. It is a call to action for conservation efforts to ensure the survival and well-being of the species.
Distribution of the Species
While the species enjoys its primary habitat in India, it can also be found across other Southeast Asian countries. These include Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. The widespread prevalence of the species enables it to adapt to different geographical conditions and environments.
Significance of Mangrove Pitta
The Mangrove Pitta is not just another bird species. It serves as a bio-indicator of the health of mangrove forests. These forests are vital ecosystems that maintain ecological balance in coastal areas. They provide a suitable habitat for various species and act as a buffer against coastal erosion and sea-level rise.
The First-Ever Census of Mangrove Pitta Birds
The inaugural census of Mangrove Pitta birds was carried using the point count method. This method involved using direct sightings and chirping sounds to enumerate the bird population. The census revealed a population of 179 individual Mangrove Pitta birds. The largest concentration of these birds was recorded near the Mahipura river mouth, inside the Bhitarkanika National Park.
This ground-breaking census provides comprehensive data on the state of the Mangrove Pitta population in India. However, it also highlights the urgency of initiating efforts to safeguard the habitat and conserve the species. The role of the Mangrove Pitta as a bio-indicator underscores the need to protect the mangroves and maintain their ecological health, ensuring the survival and prosperity of this unique species of birds.