Dunlin, a Near Threatened species, spotted during Kerala Bird Race

Kerala Bird Race 2024

Location: Kochi & Central Kerala

Event Coordinators: Cochin Natural History Society, Kerala Agricultural University (Forestry College), State Forest & Wildlife Department

Participation: ~25 teams, 100 locations

Purpose: Outreach for children & youth; promote birdwatching

Notable Observations

• Total species spotted: 192
• Individual birds counted: 4,885 (drop from 8,639 in 2023)
• Experts note: short-term counts ≠ population trends; long-term monitoring required

Endangered / Near Threatened Species

1. Dunlin (Calidris alpina) – Near Threatened (IUCN 2024)
   • Small shorebird, droopy bill; usually in large flocks on mudflats & beaches
   • Spotted at Puthuvype Beach
2. Sri Lankan Frogmouth
   • Nocturnal, forest-dwelling bird
3. Malabar Trogon
   • Endemic, colorful forest bird
4. White-bellied Treepie
   • Resident species, forest-edge habitats
5. Other notable species:
   • Red Avadavat, Blue-faced Malkoha, Banded Bay Cuckoo, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Little Stint, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Spot-bellied Eagle-Owl, Mongolian Short-toed Lark, Rosy Starling, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, Richard’s Pipit, Tree Pipit, Brown Fish Owl
     
     Updated - November 25, 2024 09:17 am | The Hindu