Garganeys (Spatula querquedula) swim in Ghodaghodi lake in western Nepal. Although they breed in Europe and across the Palearctic, they migrate to the Indian Subcontinent in the winter. Photo Credit: Krishna Pd Bhushal

AnimalsEnvironment Nepal18. April 2022

A Sanctuary Where All Bird Species Can Thrive

Nepali authorities will open the country’s very first bird sanctuary in the western province of Sudurpashchim, where hundreds of species will be protected, including a dozen globally threatened, benefiting biodiversity across the board.

“The launch of the first bird sanctuary in the country sends a message that local governments are equally committed to conserving biodiversity,” says ornithologist Hem Sagar Baral, the Nepal country representative for the Zoological Society of London.

The Ghodaghodi complex covers 2,563 hectares and is home to more than 360 bird species — native and migratory alike — including the great hornbill, lesser adjutant stork, and the Indian spotted eagle, three threatened species whose population is in decline. Since there are lakes, marshes, and forests on the territory, wildlife will benefit from the establishment of the sanctuary which doubles as a critical wildlife corridor where the Bengal tiger and the red-crowned roofed turtle can be found. The Aerides odorata orchid, the religiously significant Indian lotus, and rare wild rice also grow in these parts.

Source:
Mongabay

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