The Karnala Sanctuary in Panvel taluka, known for its diverse wildlife and bird species, recently conducted its annual wildlife count on the occasion of Buddha Jayanti. This tradition, aligning with the longest night of the year, involves a meticulous 24-hour monitoring of wildlife, using track cameras and observations at key water bodies.

Despite hopes of spotting elusive mammals, this year's survey revealed a decline in sightings of certain animals. Notably, leopards, deer, and rabbits were absent from the records. However, the sanctuary witnessed a vibrant presence of bird species, indicating a thriving avian ecosystem.

The wildlife count involved eight sanctuary employees and ten volunteers from partnering organizations. They monitored three water bodies: Mayur Dam, the information centre pond, and an artificial water body at Apta. The teams constructed scaffolds at these locations to facilitate continuous observation.

During the survey, a variety of animals such as mongooses, civet cats, Hanuman langurs, and wild boars were observed. However, the absence of leopards and other significant mammals raised concerns about the declining animal population in the sanctuary. Observers attributed this decline to increased human interference and forest degradation within the sanctuary.

Karnala Sanctuary, primarily known as a bird sanctuary, continues to attract a wide range of bird species. The survey recorded an impressive diversity of birdlife, including local and migratory species. Some of the prominent birds spotted include the golden-fronted leafbird, owl, deer, red-whiskered bulbul, White Ibis, Yellow-footed green pigeon, white-throated kingfisher, Asian green bee-eater, Little cormorant,  black drongo, Greater racket-tailed drongo, Indian pitta, Indian Cuckoo, greater coucal, oriental magpie-robin, and Spotted dove.

The survey highlighted the pressing issue of human encroachment and the rise of farmhouse culture, which has led to the destruction of natural resources and habitat loss. This environmental degradation is likely contributing to the disappearance of several animal species, including the once-visible leopards.

Despite these challenges, the sanctuary remains a critical haven for bird species, supporting a rich tapestry of avian life. The continued chirping and presence of diverse birds underscore the sanctuary's importance for both local and migratory avian populations.

The findings call for increased conservation efforts to protect the remaining wildlife and restore the ecological balance of Karnala Sanctuary. Enhanced measures to curb human interference and promote habitat restoration are essential to ensure the sanctuary remains a thriving wildlife refuge.