Bird count begins in Ghodaghodi Sanctuary

By Avinash Chaudhary,Dhangadhi, May 25: Bird counting and research are being conducted in the Ghodaghodi wetland area which stands as the first bird sanctuary in Nepal.

The Division Forest Office, Pahalmanpur, is conducting bird counting and research with the support of the Sudurpashchim Provincial Government and the Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN).

The Division Forest Office stated that bird counting and research are underway to determine the number, species and health condition of birds found in the sanctuary during the summer season.

Ornithologist Hiru Lal Dangoura stated that bird counting and research would be conducted in all areas of the Ghodaghodi Bird Sanctuary. He said that the counting and research activities would continue for one week. A team of five experts has been deployed for the bird counting. 

A total of 380 species of birds are found in the Ghodaghodi Bird Sanctuary area, among which 11 species are considered globally rare. 

Similarly, 74 species of waterbirds are found in the area. To conserve birds and their habitats, the provincial government declared the Ghodaghodi area as Nepal's first bird sanctuary two years ago. 

During the winter season, numerous migratory birds seek refuge from their home countries' severe weather by flocking to the Ghodaghodi Bird Sanctuary also designated as a Ramsar site.