Kanchanpur, June 24: The annual census of the endangered Golden Weaver bird has begun in Shuklaphanta National Park in Kanchanpur district, with conservationists hoping the survey will provide fresh insights into the status of one of Nepal’s rarest bird species.
The five-day count is being conducted jointly by Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN) and the national park.
Researchers will study the bird’s population, habitat, feeding habits and behavior, according to ornithologist Hirulal Dagaura.
The survey has been carried out annually since 2014. Found only in Nepal’s Tarai grasslands, the Golden Weaver is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Its breeding season runs from May to September, making this an important period for monitoring the species.
Recent census figures show a worrying decline in numbers, from 248 birds in 2022 to 211 in 2023 and 184 in 2025. Experts say habitat loss, shrinking grasslands and growing human activity are the main threats.
Park officials stress that protecting natural grasslands, improving habitat management and engaging local communities are key to ensuring the bird’s long-term survival.
