Srinagar, Feb 12: The Asian Waterbird Census (AWC)-2026 was conducted across 27 wetlands in Kashmir, covering 58 census points, including Wular Lake, Dal Lake, Anchar, Hokersar, and Haigam.

More than 350 participants—students, scholars, NGOs, and volunteers—assisted in the survey. The exercise provides vital data on migratory waterbird populations, informs wetland management, and supports global biodiversity monitoring. Officials reported encouraging early observations, highlighting the positive impact of conservation and restoration efforts by the Department of Wildlife Protection and WUCMA.