Eurasian diving duck in Kaziranga triggers climate change concern
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biodiversity & conservation· Prelims·
Why in news
The seventh waterbird count at Kaziranga National Park recorded the first-ever sighting of the smew (Mergellus albellus) in India, sparking discussions on climate change impacts on migratory patterns.
Background
The census recorded 105,540 individuals from 107 species at Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve. The count identified 18 species on the IUCN watchlists as critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, or near-vulnerable.
Facts for Prelims
- EnvironmentSmew (Mergellus albellus): A diving duck species sighted for the first time in India during the 2026 census.
- FactThe seventh waterbird count recorded 105,540 individuals from 107 species.
- Fact18 species identified in the census are on the IUCN watchlists as critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, or near-vulnerable.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the impact of climate change on the migratory patterns of waterbirds and the importance of protecting wetland biodiversity hotspots in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Ecological shift: Altered migratory routes and timings due to rising temperatures and changing wetland hydrology
- Habitat degradation: Loss of critical refuelling stops and nesting sites for endangered avian species
Keywords: Biodiversity hotspots · Migratory patterns · Climate change impacts · Wetland conservation · IUCN Red List
More Environment & Ecology notes
- Brahmapuram, Manakkakadavu stretches of Kadambrayar hit by high coliform levels · 3 March 2026
- ‘Hanuman’ project launched to tackle human–wildlife conflict in Andhra Pradesh · 3 March 2026
- Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav releases gharials, turtles at Kuno National Park · 2 March 2026
- Karnataka Forest Minister says soft-release centre will be set up to address human-elephant conflict · 1 March 2026
- NGT issues notices to Centre, M.P. govt over clearances to Adani Group’s coal block in Singrauli · 1 March 2026
- Above-normal heatwave days likely in most parts of India during March-May: IMD · 28 February 2026
Something wrong, or something missing?
Spotted a mistake in a note, or want a topic, format or PDF that would help your preparation? Write to us. We read every mail and fix errors fast.
This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.