Inferences on distribution and movement of some pelagic seabirds in western India

Raju, Aju K and Sreeram, Miriam Paul and Ratheesh Kumar, R and Sreenath, K R (2024) Inferences on distribution and movement of some pelagic seabirds in western India. Marine Fisheries Information Service No.260. pp. 22-27. ISSN 0254-380X

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Abstract

India, with its extensive coastline, is home to a diverse array of seabirds. The Arabian Sea, Lakshadweep Sea, Bay of Bengal, and the island groups of Lakshadweep and Andaman-Nicobar offer varied habitats for these birds. The estuaries and mangrove ecosystems along the coastlines, and the neritic and pelagic zones of the country’s vast EEZ combine to form unhindered foraging grounds for a significant number of coastal and oceanic birds. India’s tropical location attracts seabirds from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, as they migrate away from their breeding grounds in search of more favourable wintering conditions. The inferences presented are based on personal observations and other published records, including those available in the online global database eBird. The personal observations span a period of six years from 2018-2024 on south western coasts of India (Kerala) and the islands of Lakshadweep. Observations were made along the shorelines and shelf waters off Kerala at seasons of seabird activities and off seasons.

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