A seagull carrying a Chinese GPS tracker was spotted near a naval base in India, raising concerns over potential security implications. Locals expressed unease, questioning whether the bird’s presence could indicate foreign surveillance, given its proximity to a strategic coastal installation.
The incident occurred on December 17 near Thimmakka Garden in Uttara Kannada district, southern Karnataka. Authorities quickly moved to assess the situation following reports of the unusual bird sighting. Officials carefully examined the migratory seagull, which was fitted with a solar-powered GPS tracker from the Chinese Academy of Sciences. The bird was handled on tables while authorities inspected the device, documenting and photographing it in detail for further evaluation.
The GPS tracker was later confirmed to belong to the Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, an organization that commonly uses such devices to study migratory birds. The trackers help researchers monitor movement patterns, feeding habits, and migration routes, according to India Today, citing forest officers.
The Forest Department’s coastal marine cell retrieved the seagull and has launched an inquiry into the incident. Senior police officer Deepan MN from Karwar confirmed that law enforcement is coordinating closely with forest authorities. Data from the tracker indicates that the seagull traveled more than 10,000 km, including over Arctic regions, before arriving on the Karnataka coast.
While officials have not clarified whether the device was intended for scientific research or surveillance, they emphasized that it could plausibly be part of a legitimate study. The device is slated for technical examination, and authorities have contacted the Chinese institute for further verification.
This is not the first recorded instance of a tracked bird appearing near the Karwar coastline. In November 2024, a war eagle equipped with a tracking device was observed near Baithkol port. Investigations at that time confirmed the device was used for wildlife research, and no suspicious activity was identified.
The recent discovery has drawn attention because of its close proximity to sensitive naval installations. Security analysts and local authorities are now monitoring the situation, noting that foreign tracking devices near strategic areas warrant careful scrutiny. The incident underscores the delicate balance between wildlife research and national security concerns in regions with high strategic importance.
Authorities have urged the public to report unusual sightings of animals carrying devices to help ensure safety while supporting legitimate scientific research. Investigations into the seagull incident are ongoing, and officials have stated that further details will be released as the inquiry progresses.
