58 bird species documented during Campus Bird Count 2026 at Yenepoya university in Mangaluru

The Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) conducted the Campus Bird Count (CBC) 2026 from February 13 to 16 across its campuses in Mangaluru.

As many as 58 bird species were documented during the four-day survey, reflecting the rich biodiversity present within the campus ecosystem.

The exercise comprised four structured field visits, during which participants observed, recorded and photographed avian species. A total of 107 students and staff members took part in the initiative, contributing to systematic data collection and documentation.

As part of the programme, an orientation and lecture session introduced participants to the objectives and methodology of the Campus Bird Count. Passionate bird watcher A. Gopalakrishna delivered a session on CBC 2026, outlining the framework of the Great Backyard Bird Count, identification of birding hotspots, preparation of checklists, and the use of mobile applications for bird identification and reporting.

K. Vineeth Kumar, zoologist and researcher, presented a lecture titled ‘Feathered Jewels’, highlighting the ecological importance of birds, sharing insights into their unique features, and providing practical guidance on bird identification techniques.

The programme was organised by the Centre for Environmental Studies of Yenepoya university, and coordinated by Bhagya B. Sharma, Deputy Director of the centre.

The Campus Bird Count 2026 was part of the university’s ongoing commitment to biodiversity awareness, environmental stewardship and citizen science initiatives.