Cuttack: Mahanadi riverbed at Kakhadi under Athagarh forest division of Cuttack district proved again to be a safe haven for the endangered Panichiri birds (Indian Skimmers). At least 165 of the winged guests were spotted on the riverbed this breeding season, a senior Forest official informed today.

Around 82 birds of the rare species have laid eggs, of which 35 have already been hatched.

According to the source, total population of the endangered Panichiri birds is around 4,000 in the world. Interestingly, 165 of the avian species were detected on the sand dunes in Kakhadi. An 11-member team has been formed to look after the safe breeding of Indian Skimmers. The process of laying eggs started in the last week of March and will continue till June 30. Thereafter, the birds will migrate to their home grounds. “We are leaving no stone unturned for protection of the birds,” the official expressed.

Some of the migrating Indian Skimmers prefer Mahanadi riverbed as their permanent nesting site.

“With active cooperation of local villagers, nature lovers, and environmentalists, breeding of the Indian Skimmers can be facilitated and their population can be enhanced,” DFO Jagyandatt Pati stated.