Gujarat’s wetlands welcomed more than 8.33 lakh birds during 2024–25, solidifying the state’s reputation as a top destination for avian visitors. Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary alone saw over 3.09 lakh birds from 334 species last year. The combined count at Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary and Thol Bird Sanctuary exceeded 4.67 lakh birds, with Wadhwana Wetland hosting over 54,000 birds.
The Kutch region documented 2,564 migratory birds in 2025, highlighting its increasing significance on international flyways. Gujarat’s wetlands serve as seasonal shelters for about 1,200 bird species found in India, including over 400 migratory species that travel long distances from various regions like Siberia and Central Asia. The state’s conservation efforts have contributed to the rise in migratory bird numbers, with initiatives dating back to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister.
Officials credit Gujarat’s sustained increase in migratory bird populations to a robust conservation framework that has been consistently implemented over the years. The state’s Wildlife protection initiatives have been reinforced under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, focusing on habitat protection and community involvement. At Khijadiya, a variety of bird species including flamingos, pelicans, painted storks, and eagles have been prominently observed.
Gujarat is also home to over 2.85 lakh peafowl, the national bird of India, as per the 2023 population estimate. Nal Sarovar, declared a sanctuary in 1969 and a Ramsar Site in 2012, spans 120.82 sq km and attracts 329 recorded bird species. Thol Bird Sanctuary hosts a diverse range of waterbirds, while Wadhwana Wetland reports migratory species such as bar-headed geese and black-necked storks. Kutch has gained prominence through the Passage Migrant Count, a citizen-science initiative launched in 2022.
During the fourth edition of the Passage Migrant Count, over 200 birders documented more than 250 bird species across Kutch, emphasizing its role as a crucial refuelling station for birds crossing the Arabian Sea. Gujarat’s focus on wildlife rescue and awareness is evident through initiatives like ‘Karuna Abhiyan’ to rescue birds injured by kite strings during Uttarayan. The state also celebrates National Bird Day on January 5 to promote citizen awareness and conservation efforts.
With a combination of protection measures, scientific monitoring, and community engagement, Gujarat continues to enhance its reputation as a haven for birdlife, providing a secure seasonal habitat for migratory birds worldwide.
