Kendrapada: With the onset of winter, migratory birds have started arriving at Bhitarkanika National Park in the district. The presence of migratory birds in the water bodies of India’s second largest mangrove forest adds to the beauty of the park. “The water bodies have come alive with a myriad of colours following the arrival of winged visitors from Central Asia and Europe. Now, tourists and bird lovers can enjoy birdwatching in the water bodies and mangrove forest,” said Sudrashan Gopinath Yadav, the divisional forest officer of the park.The migratory birds, while traversing thousands of kilometres, also swoop down into the water bodies of Hukitola, Satabhaya, Madali and about six tiny islands near Bhitarkanika. The huge gathering of birds in Bhitarkanika and their activities is a visual treat.“The birds frequent open wetlands adjoining the mangrove forest which has enough fish, prawns, frogs, snakes and molluscs. The area is an extensive feeding ground for birds because of the availability of abundant fish in the river and creeks, and its location, which is away from human habitation,” Yadav said. Last year’s census in Bhitarkanika revealed the arrival of 1,39,959 migratory…
