Can India secure top spot in reported bird species this year?

Guwahati: In a remarkable display of citizen science and enthusiasm for birdwatching, India emerged as a key participant in the annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC). To be held between February 16 to 19, the event will see over a thousand birdwatchers across the country documenting a diverse array of bird species.

With more than one lakh birdwatchers globally participating in the GBBC, India not only secured the second-highest contributing country position last year, but it also discovered the highest number of bird species worldwide.

In 2024, India maintained its strong presence, securing the third position globally for the number of reported species, closely following Colombia and Ecuador. Additionally, it claimed the second spot for the number of uploaded bird lists, trailing behind the United States.