First Lesser Noddy Bird Sighted in Udupi, Karnataka

On March 22, 2024, wildlife officials in Udupi district witnessed the first-ever sighting of a lesser noddy seabird along the Arabian Sea coast of Karnataka, a region that has never recorded this species before.

The lesser noddy, typically found in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea, is a small colonial bird that nests on low-lying islands. Its appearance in Udupi marks a significant range expansion and aligns with recent global shifts in seabird migration patterns, suggesting changes in oceanic conditions or food availability.

Local conservation groups and birdwatchers welcome the sighting as a boost to eco‑tourism and a reminder of the importance of protecting marine habitats. The event is expected to draw enthusiasts from across the country and could lead to increased funding for coastal wildlife monitoring. Source: Google News – Udupi.