KATHMANDU: A recent bird census conducted at the Ghodaghodi Bird Sanctuary in Kailali has led to the discovery of a new bird species. Situated within the Ghodaghodi Wetlands, a site listed in the World Ramsar List, the sanctuary serves as a crucial habitat for diverse avian species.

During the census conducted from May 20 to 26, a previously unidentified species known as the Oriental Dollarbird, or locally as Lalchuche Theuwa, was spotted for the first time within the sanctuary. Scientifically named Eurystomus orientalis, these birds, also known as Lal chuche theuwa, migrate to Nepal from India and Bangladesh during the summer months.

The sighting of a pair of Lal chuche theuwa in the Bethani area of Ghodaghodi marks a significant addition to the sanctuary's bird population. Facilitator Hirulal Dagoura, from Bird Conservation Nepal, confirmed the presence of these birds, enriching the biodiversity of the sanctuary.

With the inclusion of this new species, the total count of bird species recorded in the Ghodaghodi Wetlands has now risen to 381. The bird census, conducted in collaboration with the Division Forest Office and Bird Conservation Nepal, aims to provide updated information on the species, population, and conservation status of summer migratory birds in the area.