A book featuring over three decades of observations, research, photography and documentation of the avian species in The Nilgiris was released here on Friday evening (June 19, 2026).

The book, “Birds of the Nilgiris: A Historical Account (1839–2025)” by P. J. Vasanthan, traces the avian history of The Nilgiris district from the earliest recorded accounts in 1839 to the present day.

The book was released by District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru in the presence of over 140 attendees, including conservationists, naturalists, historians, educators, students, and members of the public.

Following the release, a panel discussion was conducted featuring the Collector, environmentalist Bittu Sahgal, and project supporters Paul Abraham and Pavitra Rajaram. The discussion examined a range of issues affecting the ecological future of The Nilgiris, including endemic species, the role of the Western Ghats in water security, changing migratory patterns, invasive species, local extinctions, climate change, and the importance of developing a long-term ecological restoration strategy extending over the next fifty years.

Containing over 530 pages, approximately 200,000 words, and more than 600 photographs, the book seeks to document not only the birds of the district but also the changing landscapes, habitats, and conservation challenges that have shaped Nilgiri avifauna over nearly two centuries, a press release stated.