Changaram Wetlands is a top Kerala birdwatching spot. This natural jewel was undetected until 2014. After seeing the area’s ecological importance, Swedish ornithologist Christer Olsson and his crew instructed local kids that year. Thus, Birders Ezhupunna was founded.
Migratory birds are one of Changaram Wetlands’ main draws. The Birders Ezhupunna community identified approximately 200 bird species in Kerala with the help of many birdwatchers. These rare migratory species include the Asian Dowitcher, Willow Warbler, Long-toed Stint, and Common Ringed Plover. Over 7,000 bird observations from this area have been recorded on eBird. Changaram Wetlands is a prime example of citizen science in India, demonstrating how community involvement drives scientific study and conservation activities.

Migratory shorebirds, herons, waders, and other aquatic birds rest and feed at Changaram Wetlands on Kerala’s western coast. Bird species depend on the region’s mudflats, marshy woods, and agricultural fields. Waterbird surveys in 2018 and 2019 found 77 species, including long-distance migratory birds, regional migrants, and shorebirds, large wading birds, herons, and waders.

Among these, 10 species are classified as threatened according to the IUCN Red List. This highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect Changaram Wetlands. With increasing human-induced pressures leading to a decline in waterbird populations, it is essential to implement a permanent monitoring and assessment system to safeguard both the ecosystem and the birds that
depend on it. (Anand, Jasmine, H. Byju, Aymen Nefla, S. Abhijith, Omer R. Reshi, K.M. Aarif, 2023).
Recognizing the importance of both the birds and the wetlands, local political groups and authorities make efforts to clean the wetlands every year. These initiatives aim to restore and maintain the ecosystem, ensuring a safer habitat for the migratory and resident bird species.