The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is an annual event where birdwatchers across the globe document bird species in their vicinity. India plays a significant role in this event, showcasing remarkable citizen science and enthusiasm for birdwatching.
Participation and Contributions
- Yearly Event: Held between February 16 to 19.
- Participant Count: Over a thousand birdwatchers across India participate.
- Global Ranking: Last year, India secured the second-highest contributing country position and discovered the highest number of bird species worldwide.
- Current Status (2024): India maintains a strong presence, ranking third globally for reported species and second for uploaded bird lists.
Notable Bird Species
- Frequently Observed Birds: Include Himalayan Bulbul, House Crow, Red-vented Bulbul, Feral Pigeon, and Plume-toed Swift.
- Regional Distribution: These birds are observed in specific regions such as the Himalayas, north and south, eastern and central regions, west, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Significance and Impact
- Citizen Science Contribution: GBBC aids in understanding avian populations, contributing valuable data for conservation efforts.
- Personal Testimonials: Birdwatchers like Sagarika Gupta and Dibyendu Ash express their enjoyment and the event’s purpose in fostering appreciation for birdlife.
- Coordination: GBBC in India is coordinated by Bird Count India, involving various birding, nature, and conservation organizations.
Campus Bird Count
- Sister Event: Alongside GBBC, educational and institutional campuses in India participate in the “Campus Bird Count.”
- Importance: These areas outside protected zones are crucial habitats for wildlife, and monitoring bird populations in such areas is significant.
Organizers
- Global Organizers: Cornell University and the Audubon Society in the USA.
- Local Coordination: GBBC in India is coordinated by Bird Count India.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- When is the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) usually held?
- A) March 16 to 19
- B) February 16 to 19
- C) April 16 to 19
- D) January 16 to 19
- Answer: B) February 16 to 19
- Which country secured the highest number of reported bird species in the global GBBC in 2024?
- A) India
- B) Colombia
- C) Ecuador
- D) United States
- Answer: B) Colombia
- What is the main purpose of the GBBC event?
- A) To sell birdwatching equipment
- B) To promote international tourism
- C) To document bird species for conservation efforts
- D) To study weather patterns
- Answer: C) To document bird species for conservation efforts
- Which organization coordinates GBBC in India?
- A) Cornell University
- B) Bird Count India
- C) The Audubon Society
- D) Wildlife Institute of India
- Answer: B) Bird Count India