Census of water birds begins in Ghodaghodi Wetland

January 3, Kathmandu: The number of water birds in the Ghodaghodi Wetland of Kailali has fallen in recent years. Conservationists say the decline is a serious concern.

Experts point to unsafe habitats and a lack of food as key reasons. Poaching has also affected bird numbers. They warn that the trend reflects poor ecological health of the wetland.

Dayaram Chaudhary, Chair of Bird Conservation Network Kailali, said around 1,100 birds were recorded during last year’s count. This figure was lower than in 2022. He added that the population of Harihans, a small duck species, has also decreased.

Ghodaghodi Wetland includes 24 lakes. Ghodaghodi Lake is the largest natural lake in Nepal’s Terai region. Stakeholders say protecting the area’s biodiversity is urgent.

The Sudurpashchim Province Government declared Ghodaghodi Lake Nepal’s first Bird Sanctuary on March 11, 2022. The wetland is home to about 381 bird species.

Meanwhile, the annual bird census in the Ghodaghodi area began on Saturday. It will conclude on January 5.