Bhubaneswar, Nov. 20 -- With the onset of winter, Chilika Lake has once again come alive with the arrival of thousands of migratory birds. Over 50 species and lakhs of foreign birds have already reached the blue expanse of Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, adding to its charm and drawing visitors from across India and abroad.

Bird watchers, conservation committees, and the Wildlife Wing expect a higher tourist turnout this year compared to last season. Authorities say the annual arrival of these winged guests has triggered a steady inflow of tourists to Nalabana, Mangalajodi, Satapada, and other bird-rich zones of Chilika.

The wetlands now resonate with the chirping of migratory birds flying thousands of miles from countries such as...