Seagull with Chinese GPS found near key Karnataka naval base
What's the story
A migratory seagull fitted with a Chinese-made GPS tracking device was discovered on the Karwar coast of Karnataka. The bird was found near the INS Kadamba naval base, one of India's most strategic installations. Locals spotted the unusual device attached to the bird's back near Timmakka Garden in Uttara Kannada district and alerted forest department officials.
Tracker origin
GPS tracker linked to Chinese research center
Upon preliminary examination, officials discovered that the GPS tracker was from the Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Forest officials explained that such devices are usually used by researchers to study migratory birds' movement patterns, feeding behavior, and migration routes. The data retrieved from the device showed that the seagull had flown over 10,000km including Arctic regions before reaching Karnataka coast.
Ongoing investigation
Authorities investigate potential research project
Senior police officer Deepan MN said they are verifying details related to the GPS tracker. He said, "The Forest Department's coastal marine cell found the bird and is currently conducting an inquiry." Forest department officials believe that this incident might be part of a research project with no immediate indication of espionage. Nonetheless, the GPS device will be sent for technical examination to rule out other possibilities.
Naval significance
INS Kadamba: India's strategic naval base
The discovery of the bird near INS Kadamba has drawn attention from multiple agencies. The base is home to key warships, including aircraft carriers and submarines. Once its expansion work is completed, it will be the largest naval base in the eastern hemisphere. This isn't the first incident of such nature in Karwar region. In November 2024, a war eagle with a tracking device was found near Baithkol port but was linked to wildlife research.