![](/Portals/209/Images/News/Indian skimmer seen along the riverine habitats of Godavari river_Pic Credits_Giridhar Malla.jpg?ver=2020-11-04-152931-327)
Indian skimmer seen along the riverine habitats of Godavari river ©Giridhar Malla
River channels and adjacent riparian zones play critical ecological roles, which include supporting rich and unique biodiversity. However, these habitats are increasingly being subjected to large-scale modifications resulting in their loss and degradation. In a recently published short communication, WCS-India Associates Paromita Ray and Giridhar Malla document the importance of the riverine and riparian habitats of the Godavari River in supporting a vibrant avian community and in providing critical habitats for threatened riverine species. Eight globally threatened avian species were recorded during the study including the 'Endangered' black-bellied tern and the 'Vulnerable' Indian skimmer. In fact, the Godavari delta in Andhra Pradesh is a crucial site for conservation of Indian skimmers, as congregations of the species have been recorded annually along the delta.
![](/Portals/209/Images/News/Indian%20Eagle%20owl%20is%20mostly%20seen%20perching%20on%20the%20rocks%20along%20the%20Godavari%20river_Pic%20Credits_Giridhar%20Malla.jpg?ver=2020-11-04-153030-827)
Indian Eagle owl is mostly seen perching on the rocks along the Godavari river ©Giridhar Malla
Read the scientific publication here.