Two Birders Identify 452 Bird Species In Telangana
The study combines decades of fieldwork, community-contributed records, and historical data to capture the birdlife across Telangana’s diverse landscapes, from forests and wetlands to urban lakes and scrublands: Reports
HYDERABAD: A newly published research study has identified 452 species of birds across Telangana, making it one of the most comprehensive avifaunal checklists for the state to date. The paper, co-authored by Osmania University wildlife biologist Prof. Chelmala Srinivasulu and Hyderabad Birding Pals member Sriram Reddy, was recently published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa.
The study combines decades of fieldwork, community-contributed records, and historical data to capture the birdlife across Telangana’s diverse landscapes, from forests and wetlands to urban lakes and scrublands. It also highlights the presence of globally threatened species such as the Critically Endangered Indian Vulture and Lesser Florican, while documenting rare sightings like the Spur-winged Lapwing, never before recorded in India.
“Birds are excellent indicators of environmental health. Our work not only corrects outdated records but also showcases Telangana’s hidden biodiversity hotspots, many of which are vulnerable and under-recognised,” said Prof. Srinivasulu.
The paper also draws attention to growing threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. The authors urge that bird conservation be integrated into local and state-level planning.
Sriram Reddy, a citizen scientist who contributed field observations, said the list was meant not only for scientists but for anyone interested in birds. “We hope it encourages more people, especially the youth, to take up birdwatching and conservation,” he said.
Platforms like eBird and iNaturalist, along with the participation of amateur birders across the state, were key to the checklist’s compilation. The study also urges policymakers to involve researchers in identifying and protecting key habitats.
“This work is a result of deep passion and long-term observation by two committed birders. It is heartening to see the university contributing to nature research that has direct public relevance,” said Osmania University vice-chancellor Prof. Kumar Molugaram.
