Seven new bird species have been sighted since the beginning of the current Iranian year (March 21) in Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari Province by environmentalists, increasing the number of recorded species from 215 to 222.
The birds include curlew sandpiper, spotted redshank, barred Warbler, red-backed shrike, squacco heron, tufted duck and common rosefinch, Mehr News Agency quoted Keramat Hafezi, an environmentalist as saying. Among the newly discovered species, curlew sandpiper is listed as threatened at the red list of the International Union for Conservation of Nature making each sighting a valuable record.
"Three of the rare species have been sighted around Gandoman Wetland," Hafezi said. The annual census of prominent bird species in the province, which just ended in late May, has also shown that birds such as northern lapwing, common pochard, European roller as well as white stork still live in acceptable numbers in and around the wetlands.
Birding Chance
The condition creates a perfect opportunity for bird-watching, a recreational activity around the world that has become noticeably popular in recent decades.
It is one of the branches of responsible tourism, causing the least damage to the environment. It is not necessary to be an expert to watch the birds—everyone with an interest and desire to interact with nature can enjoy the activity.
"Bird-watching enthusiasts in many developed countries outnumber football fans and it has become an eco-friendly industry," Hafezi said, adding that Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari is a prime location for the activity and has the potential to pull foreigners.
Perfect Haven
With vastly contrasting habitats and climate, Iran makes a perfect haven for wild birds. It can present more than 527 avifauna species for an avid birder and is well placed to welcome bird-watching tours. Iran has more than 105 Important Bird Areas in the list of Bird Life International Community and birders can choose as a backdrop a vast and varying range of habitats.
Those interested in bird-watching can refer to the official website of Iran Bird Record Committee (http://Iranbirdrecords.ir/) for elaborated information about different bird species including the threatened. They can also contribute to the annual survey through submitting a report in the website, in case of spotting a special kind of bird in any part of the country.
