Survey finds 171 bird, 25 butterfly species in Dholera

Ahmedabad: Over two days, nature observers scanned the landscape of Dholera including the area where mangroves have been planted. The study has thrown up numerous surprises, and given wings to conservation efforts. The observers recorded approximately 50,000 birds from 171 species across diverse habitats in all talukas besides 25 butterfly species. The two-day meet was part of the 71st National Wildlife Week, with human-wildlife coexistence as the theme.Reports have been uploaded on birding websites like eBird andiNaturalist, participating officials said, adding that the numbers were drawn based on checklists from all seven zones formed in Dholera's talukas. The district is known for its biodiversity, and supports raptors, waders, and lesser-known bird species like the Macqueen's bustard and Lesser Floricans.The findings on different butterfly species is a major achievement, said officials. Another important aspect studied were the 30 grass species, 50 varieties of herbs and climbers. Among the important finds in vegetation were Aristolochia bracteata or kidamari, an insectivorous plant; Coix lacryma-jobi, a grass variety whose seeds are used to make the vaijanti mala, besides huge patches of Crotalaria.The grassland patches observed were dominated by Ischaemum sp. and Fimbristylis sp, species, which make suitable habitats for wolves, jackals, foxes, mongooses, and blackbucks, according to deputy conservator of forest, social forestry, Minal Jani.Chief conservator of forest, Ahmedabad, K Ramesh said, In the past decade, mangroves have been planted in more than 7,000 ha, which has further enhanced marine biodiversity. A good population of crabs, shrimps, fishes, molluscs, and other invertebrates was observed, making the place a haven for birds."