Karwar: A seagull found with a GPS tracking device along the Karnataka coast sparked widespread speculation and security concerns this week after locals reported the bird near the Karwar shoreline, close to a key naval installation. Initial rumours on social media suggested possible espionage, but authorities have since clarified that there is no evidence of spying.
The bird was spotted by fishermen who noticed a small electronic device attached to it. The matter quickly drew attention as the area is located near the INS Kadamba naval base. Local residents alerted forest officials, who secured the bird and informed security agencies.
Early examinations showed that the device was a GPS tracker commonly used in wildlife research. Officials confirmed that such trackers are widely used by scientists across the world to study migratory routes, breeding patterns, and feeding behaviour of birds. The fact that the tracker carried a manufacturing label from China added to public suspicion, but authorities stressed that many scientific instruments are produced there and this alone does not indicate malicious intent.
Forest department officials said the bird appeared to be a migratory seagull and was healthy. The tracker was removed carefully for technical analysis. Security agencies are now working to identify the research institution or conservation group that may have tagged the bird as part of an international study.
Officials involved in the inquiry stated that GPS trackers used for bird research do not collect sensitive military information. They only transmit location data of the animal to satellites and are not capable of recording images, sounds, or classified activity on the ground.
Despite this clarification, authorities said a detailed verification is underway because of the sensitive location where the bird was found. They added that such caution is standard procedure whenever any unfamiliar object is discovered near defence establishments.
Experts have also urged the public not to jump to conclusions, noting that similar incidents have occurred in other parts of the country and abroad, often leading to unnecessary panic before scientific explanations emerge.
At present, agencies have found no links to espionage or security threats. Officials reiterated that the incident appears to be a case of scientific research being misunderstood due to heightened public alertness and online speculation.
The investigation will continue until the origin of the tracker is formally confirmed, but authorities have asked people to rely on verified information and avoid spreading unsubstantiated claims.