The journey to Sri Lanka and back… ‘Tracing bird migration’ positively impacts bird watching, conservation efforts

A two-year-old eagle was attached with a GPS collar and released near the historical Gannoruwa forest in Kandy recently

Annually, as Sri Lankans eagerly await the return of migratory birds to this island, there comes an opportunity to witness a nature’s awe-inspiring spectacle—birds traversing continents and diverse landscapes. In an innovative initiative, the Daily Mirror is employing cutting-edge technology to track these avian travelers’ journeys.
Colombo University Zoology Department Prof. Sampath Seneviratne launched a project that attaches GPS transponders to birds, providing unprecedented insights into their migration routes, behaviours and the challenges they confront.

Initiated in mid-2020, this groundbreaking project aims to fill existing data gaps regarding migratory bird movements. As Sri Lanka marks the final landmass along the Central Asian Flyway, it hosts over 200 bird species migrating to the Indian Ocean island for the winter season.

A significant aspect of this initiative involved equipping a two-year-old reptilian eagle with a GPS collar and releasing it near the historic Gannoruva Forest in Kandy. This collaboration between the University of Colombo Zoology Department and environmental organizations in the Central Province underscores the project’s comprehensive approach to environmental preservation and bird biodiversity research.

Migration is a remarkable phenomenon driven by seasonal changes, resource availability and breeding requirements. Birds embark on long-distance journeys, facing risks like predation and adverse weather conditions.
Bird migration is vital for ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity, and environmental health, facilitating seed dispersal, pollination and insect population regulation. Sri Lanka’s diverse habitats make it a crucial stopover and wintering ground for many migratory bird species; positioning the island as a hotspot for bird watching and research.

Key wetlands 

Tracking bird migration involves GPS transponders attached to select species, offering real-time data on migration

routes and behaviours. Previously, Sri Lanka’s National Bird Ringing Programme used traditional tagging methods, but the introduction of more advanced satellite tags, despite their higher cost, has significantly enhanced research capabilities.

The GPS units, weighing only a fraction of the bird’s weight, remain attached until the bird’s death, operating on solar power to track migration and habitat utilization. This technology has shed light on bird migration patterns, revealing distinct routes influenced by geographical barriers and wind patterns, and identifying crucial stopover sites for conservation efforts.

Despite the benefits of bird migration, these avian travelers face numerous challenges, including habitat destruction, climate change, and pollution. Conservation measures are imperative to protect vital habitats and migration routes, ensuring the survival of migratory bird populations.

The findings from this project have direct implications for conservation efforts, guiding habitat restoration and the establishment of protected areas. Community engagement and awareness initiatives are essential to involve citizens in bird watching activities and conservation efforts.

The success of this project marks a significant milestone in avian research and conservation. International collaboration and community engagement are vital for protecting migratory birds and their habitats, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

Prof. Sampath Seneviratne emphasised Mannar’s historical significance and its role as vital wintering wetlands for migratory birds. Sri Lanka’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on Migratory Species underscores its responsibility to safeguard millions 
of visiting birds.

The Central Asian Flyway-Sri Lanka Waterbird Tracking Project, led by the University of Colombo, underscores Mannar’s crucial role within this global flyway. Birds tagged in Mannar have been tracked to nine countries across Asia and Europe, emphasizing the interconnectedness of key wetlands.

However, proposed developments like the 250 MW wind farm in Mannar could disrupt bird movements and have far-reaching consequences for bird tourism and ecosystem health. Forests in Mannar and beyond serve as vital habitats for migratory and resident species, playing a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting local economies.

Any disturbance to these ecosystems could jeopardise not only bird populations, but also the region’s potential for wildlife-based tourism. Thus, careful consideration and sustainable planning are essential to balance development with conservation, ensuring the long-term survival of migratory birds and their habitats.