The seventh waterbird count (January 4–11, 2026) at Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve recorded a rare winter migrant — the Smew (Mergellus albellus), a striking diving duck from the Eurasian taiga breeding grounds. 

• This is the first recorded sighting of the species in the Kaziranga landscape.

About the Smew

• A rare winter visitor to India, usually seen in northern wetlands.
• Males have a black-masked white body, while females are mottled brown.
• Prefers fish-rich, sheltered wetlands.
• Global population: ~1,30,000 (declining due to habitat loss and pollution).

Its presence in Kaziranga’s Rowmari and Donduwa beels (Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary) signals healthy wetland ecosystems but also raises concerns about climate-driven range shifts.

Census Highlights

• 1,05,540 waterbirds recorded.
• 107 species documented across 166 wetlands.
• Highest concentration (about 50,000 birds) was recorded in the Beelmari and Dandua wetlands of Kaziranga.
• Top abundant species: Bar-headed Goose, Northern Pintail, Lesser Whistling Duck.
• Top five wetlands by count were Laokhowa’s Rowmari Beel (15,661 birds), Donduwa Beel (14,469), Katakhal (4,979), Sohola (3,612), and Khalihamari (3,463). 
• Top five wetlands by diversity were Rowmari (77 species), Donduwa (71), Sohola (69), Kawoimari-Bhoisamari-Diffulo (57), and Ververy (53).
• IUCN status in count: 1 Critically Endangered, 1 Endangered, 2 Vulnerable and 14 Near Threatened.
  • Endangered species such as Leptoptilos dubius (66) and Haliaeetus leucoryphus (61) were also recorded.
  • Vulnerable species such as Lesser Adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus) (257)
  • Near threatened species, including Ferruginous Pochard (Aythya nyroca) (5,594) and Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster) (1,102) were also recorded.

Kaziranga landscape (1,302 sq. km.) includes Important Bird Areas (IBAs) such as Kaziranga, Laokhowa and Burhachapori.

Conservation Significance

• Highlights importance of wetland conservation under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• Supports India’s commitment under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
• Reinforces the role of floodplain ecosystems for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway.

The slight decline in bird numbers compared to 2025 underlines vulnerability to climate change, habitat degradation, and encroachment.

Exam Hook

UPSC Prelims Question (Statement Type):

Consider the following statements regarding the Smew:

1. It is a diving duck that breeds in the Eurasian taiga.
2. It is commonly found across southern India.
3. It prefers fish-rich sheltered wetlands during winter.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a)

One-line Wrap:
The rare Smew’s arrival in Kaziranga reflects both wetland resilience and emerging climate signals in Northeast India.

Source