Rare Smew Spotted for First Time in Assam Sanctuary

Guwahati: Conservationists spotted a Smew duck in Assam for the first time. The bird turned up at Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary. Forest and Climate Change Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah confirmed the find on Sunday, August 23. This rare visitor highlights the value of the sanctuary's wetland ecosystems.

The team discovered the waterbird while conducting the 7th Kaziranga Waterbird Count 2026. Surveyors covered multiple sites across the sanctuary, specifically the Rowmari, Dondowa, and Muamari beels. The survey team also logged the endangered Bengal Florican alongside a diverse range of other avian species.

Forest officials believe the Smew acts as a gauge for wetland health. The species relies on these habitats as wintering grounds. As the minister noted, the sanctuary has achieved a "significant conservation milestone with the first-ever sighting of the Smew."

Authorities are tightening their grip on the area. They intensified patrols and surprise checks to stop illegal activity. Police already arrested one suspect for illegal fishing. Future management will rely on strict enforcement, habitat protection, and constant scientific monitoring to track bird populations.