The mid-February tradition of observing birds from balconies, campuses, wetlands and village tanks has grown into one of India’s most dependable citizen-science exercises through the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC).
Global Participation
The GBBC is coordinated worldwide by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in partnership with the National Audubon Society and other organisations. India has been part of the global effort since the initiative expanded worldwide in 2013.
Key Highlights of GBBC 2026
- 1,087 bird species recorded in India
- India ranked second globally in total species documented
- West Bengal topped the national tally with 519 species
West Bengal’s diverse habitats — Himalayan foothills, Gangetic plains and coastal wetlands — contributed to its high count.
About GBBC
Launched in 1998, GBBC was the first online participatory-science project designed to collect real-time data on wild birds. It allows birdwatchers and citizens to submit sightings, helping scientists track bird populations, migration patterns and biodiversity trends.
Significance for India
- Promotes citizen science and public engagement in biodiversity monitoring
- Helps track climate and habitat change impacts on bird populations
- Provides data for conservation policy and ecological planning
Source: TH
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