Promoting Birdwatching as a Central Eco-Tourism Venture in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, home to over 300 bird species, many of which are rare or endemic, are under threat due to various factors such as habitat loss, hunting, and invasive species. One of the endemic bird species listed as "Near Threatened" by the IUCN is the Andaman Wood Pigeon, with an estimated 2,500-10,000 mature individuals.
The upcoming development project in the region poses significant risks to the islands' birdlife, particularly on Great Nicobar Island. Increased human activity and noise pollution associated with the project can further disrupt bird behavior and foraging patterns. Notable among the endemic bird species under threat are the Andaman Wood Pigeon, Nicobar Megapode, and Nicobar Imperial Pigeon.
The project, involving extensive deforestation and construction of infrastructure, leads to the destruction and disturbance of natural habitats essential for various bird species. This can result in population declines, reduced breeding success, and even local extinctions for some bird species.
However, efforts are being made to conserve these endemic bird species. The local administration, in collaboration with the Avian Club Andaman and Nicobar, has launched programs to encourage responsible birdwatching tourism. This approach leverages the islands' unique ecosystems and over 30 endemic bird species to position the area as a significant birdwatching hotspot and foster international attention and conservation interest.
On July 27, a special public lecture titled "Birdwatching in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands" was hosted by Arun Singh, President of the Avians Club. Arun Singh emphasized that birdwatching is not only a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts but also for sustainable tourism.
Beyond awareness and eco-tourism promotion, conservation challenges remain, particularly from infrastructure projects like the proposed transshipment port at Great Nicobar, which threaten habitats through deforestation and ecosystem disruption. Although detailed mitigation measures have been proposed, environmentalists warn that such large-scale projects could release vast amounts of CO₂ and severely impact endemic species such as the Andaman wood pigeon, Nicobar pigeon, and Andaman serpent eagle.
In summary, current conservation efforts combine eco-tourism promotion and public engagement to support endemic bird species, while environmental concerns related to development projects persist as significant threats to these conservation goals. It is crucial to strike a balance between development and conservation to ensure the survival of these unique and endemic bird species in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Notable bird species in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands include the Andaman Green Pigeon, Andaman Shama, and the Andaman Crake, in addition to the previously mentioned species. The Narcondam Hornbill, Andaman Serpent Eagle, and the Nicobar Pigeon are also part of the rich avifauna diversity of these islands.
Development projects, such as the proposed transshipment port at Great Nicobar, threaten to disrupt the fragile home-and-garden of the endemic bird species in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, leading to potential local extinctions. As awareness for the importance of these species grows, travelers can contribute to the conservation efforts by participating in responsible birdwatching tourism, thus supporting the lifestyle of sustainable tourism and enhancing the home-and-garden for these unique birds.
