The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) 2023 made headlines recently due to an alarming result. This population count indicated that numbers of certain migratory waterbirds, primarily ducks visiting Kerala’s Alappuzha region, were dwindling.
Survey Highlights
Several concerns arose from the survey. The main points of the study reveled an absence of particular species of ducks recorded in previous research. These included the Northern Shoveler, Common teal and Eurasian wigeon which were previously sighted but completely absent this time.
A crucial factor contributing to the decline is climate change, which has impacted the number of birds visiting the area. The specific effects of climate change on bird migration, however, are yet to be examined in depth.
Understanding the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC)
The AWC is a program developed by citizens aiming to contribute towards the conservation and management of wetlands and waterbirds globally. Wetlands International coordinates this project as part of the broader International Waterbird Census (IWC). The AWC operates contemporaneously with other regional initiatives executed by the IWC in Africa, Europe, West Asia, the Neotropics, and the Caribbean.
The AWC began its operation in India in 1987 and has since expanded rapidly, encompassing vast areas of Asia, including Afghanistan, Japan, Southeast Asia and Australasia. In India, the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and Wetlands International jointly oversee the AWC.
The Significance of the Asian Waterbird Census
The AWC serves several essential functions beyond a mere population count. It provides valuable information about the variety of bird species in the wetlands and offers insights into the health of these habitats. The more waterbirds present, the healthier the wetlands are presumed to be.
The data gathered from this survey is instrumental in implementing the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) and the Convention on Biological Diversity‘s (CBD) more effectively.
Implications for UPSC Civil Services Examination
For UPSC Civil Services Examination aspirants, understanding the work of conservation organizations like Wetlands International is crucial. A previous year question (2014) inquired about the operations of Wetlands International, focusing on whether it is an intergovernmental organization formed by Ramsar Convention signatories and if it works at field level to advocate better policies using practical knowledge.