Vizag, February 20, 2026: The Great Backyard Bird Count 2026 wrapped up with strong results from north coastal Andhra Pradesh. Districts like Vizianagaram (141 species, sixth in state) and Visakhapatnam (133 species, ninth) highlighted the region's wetlands, estuaries, and urban green spaces.
Participants surveyed over 100 hotspots in Visakhapatnam alone, including the airport wetland that hosted winter migrants such as northern pintail, gadwall, and pochards. Campuses like GITAM added sightings of orange-headed thrush, Indian grey hornbill, and verditer flycatcher.
Srikakulam's brackish estuaries drew coastal waders and terns, underscoring interconnected habitats.
Andhra Pradesh recorded 319 bird species statewide, placing 12th nationally as India hit 1,087 species and ranked second globally.
