Guwahati: The Nature Environment & Wildlife Society (NEWS) organized a book release programme for “Birds of Deepor Beel” at the auditorium of the Assam Forest School in Jalukbari, Guwahati. The publication brings attention to the rich bird diversity of Deepor Beel and aims to strengthen awareness and conservation efforts around this important wetland ecosystem.
Authored by noted naturalist and wildlife expert Anwaruddin Choudhury, the book is a detailed documentation of birdlife found in Deepor Beel and its surrounding areas. Based on decades of field observation, the book records as many as 352 species of birds, including both resident and migratory species, underlining the ecological importance of the wetland.
The 144-page publication includes colour photographs, short descriptions of various species, and a comprehensive checklist. It not only showcases the biodiversity of the wetland but also highlights its significance as a Ramsar Site, a natural stormwater basin for Guwahati, and a vital source of livelihood for local communities. The book also draws attention to key conservation challenges such as habitat loss, siltation, invasive plant species, and increasing urban pressure.
The publication has been brought out by Nature Environment & Wildlife Society under the Living Lakes Biodiversity and Climate Project (LLBCP), a joint initiative between the Federal Ministry for the Environment of Germany and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. NEWS is the implementing partner of the project.
The event was attended by Dr. Anwaruddin Choudhury, along with several distinguished guests including Dr. Priyasa Saikia, Director of Assam Forest School; Lakhan Teron, a community representative from Deepor Beel; Chayanika Barman, Range Officer of Deepor Beel Wildlife Range; Karuna Sharma, General Secretary of Kaziranga Wildlife Society; and Dr. Mayur Bawri, Project Manager of LLBCP.
The programme saw active participation from local community members, youth from the Deepor Beel area, and students of Hari Gayatri Das College, reflecting growing interest among younger generations in biodiversity conservation.
Speakers at the event stressed the ecological importance of Deepor Beel as a critical habitat for birds and emphasized the need for collective conservation efforts. They also praised Dr. Choudhury’s work, calling it a valuable contribution to wildlife research and environmental awareness in Northeast India.
The release of “Birds of Deepor Beel” is being seen as an important step toward promoting conservation awareness and preserving the natural heritage of the region.
