Chhindwara's Poama City Forest becomes a safe haven for 38 bird species: Sighting and breeding of rare fowls signal the growing success of conservation efforts
Chhindwara: Poama City Forest is rapidly emerging as one of the prime bird habitats in the district. A recent survey recorded 38 bird species, including several rare ones that are nesting and breeding around the nursery's pond.
Bird enthusiasts—Manisha Parihar, Rohit Yadav, and Prateek—recently surveyed various sections of the nursery and its water bodies. They observed a significant number of local and water birds, reflecting the area's improving ecological health.
Notably, the team spotted the 'Crested Hawk-Eagle' and 'Puff-throated Babbler,' alongside flocks of the colorful 'Scarlet Minivet' and 'Silver-eared Mesia.' Active breeding behavior was observed across several species, indicating that the site offers a favorable environment for nesting.
New pond attracts water birds
A new pond created within the Poama City Forest has also attracted water birds. Species such as the 'Spot-billed Duck,' 'Little Grebe,' and 'Cormorant' were sighted in and around this water body. This demonstrates that the new pond is proving to be an excellent source of food, water, and habitat for both resident and migratory birds.
Range Officer Neeraj Bisen stated that this increase in avian diversity is the result of ongoing conservation measures. These initiatives include the removal of the invasive 'Lantana' species, the planting of native trees, and water conservation efforts undertaken as part of the City Forest project.
Former Divisional Forest Officer Swaroop R. Dixit stated that these encouraging results reinforce the vision of developing the Poama City Forest into a hub for biodiversity conservation and nature education. He added that regular bird surveys would help monitor ecological changes and facilitate scientific forest management, while also guiding future conservation and environmental education efforts.