A seagull with a Chinese GPS tracker was found near Karwar Naval Base, prompting police and naval probe despite likely ecological research purpose
Authorities in Karwar, Uttara Kannada district, have launched an investigation after a migratory seagull fitted with a GPS tracker was discovered near the Kadamba Naval Base, a high-security zone that houses the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya.
The bird was spotted by a passerby who alerted the police. On examination, officials found the tracker inscribed with ‘Eco-Environment Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences.’ Preliminary information suggests the device was installed for research purposes, tracking the movement, feeding habits, and migration patterns of seagulls.
The seagull has been handed over to the Marine Forest Division office, while forest officials have initiated communication with the Chinese Academy to verify details of the study. Given the sensitive location where the bird was found, the police and naval authorities have begun a formal inquiry. The case falls under the jurisdiction of Karwar City police station.
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Officials noted that while the tracker appears to be part of a scientific project, its presence in a restricted naval zone requires thorough verification. Security agencies remain cautious, as the Kadamba base is under constant alert due to its strategic importance.
This is not the first time migratory birds have drawn attention in the area. A few months earlier, a falcon released in Maharashtra by the forest department and BNHS scientists landed inside the naval base, sparking curiosity among locals and security personnel after being spotted with a ring around its neck.
Seagulls typically migrate along the Karnataka coast after the monsoon, and large flocks have recently been observed in Karwar and Ankola. The latest incident highlights the intersection of wildlife migration and national security, prompting authorities to balance ecological research with vigilance in sensitive zones.
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