Necessity to conserve bird habitat in Puraini Lake

By Avinash Chaudhary,Dhangadhi, Dec. 29: Conservation of birds and management of their habitats has become imperative at Puraini Lake of Belauri Municipality-6 in the Kanchanpur district.

The necessity arises due to bird poaching at the lake and the destruction of habitats caused by invasive plant species. Effective measures to manage these habitats are urgently required.

Ornithologist Hirulal Dangoura identified poaching and habitat destruction as the primary challenges at Puraini Lake. So he stressed the need to manage bird habitats and control poaching in the area.

Spread across 30 bighas (around 20 hectares), Puraini Lake currently hosts an increased presence of migratory winter birds as well as local waterfowl. The lake is home to 55 species of water birds, making it a haven for these species. Birdwatchers from India who visit Puraini consider it essential to conserve both the lake and its avian inhabitants.

Preserving the lake and its bird species is crucial for future generations. Samaprasanna Sen, a member of the Animal Welfare Board of India and the National Animal Welfare Council, pointed out the importance of the Nepalese government’s role in protecting Puraini Lake and its birds.

“Let us not destroy what nature has given us,” Sen said, adding, “We must protect the birds, aquatic plants, aquatic animals and fish found here.” Referring to Siberian birds that travel over 13,000 to 14,000 kilometres to reach Puraini, he stressed that they should not be harmed. “These birds are our heritage and we must preserve them for the future,” he added.

Bird enthusiasts highlighted the need to raise awareness among locals about bird conservation. Since birds do not adhere to geographic borders or maps, it is vital to create an environment where they can migrate, thrive, and return year after year. 

Dr. Abhinav Saxena, a bird enthusiast from Shahjahanpur, India, urged the Nepalese government to ensure their protection. The Nepal government should take steps to conserve these birds, he said.

They also suggested building a view tower at Puraini Lake to facilitate birdwatching. “If people come here and watch the birds, their love and affection for them will grow. This can significantly contribute to bird conservation efforts,” he said.