2,500 water birds recorded in Kailali

By Avinash Chaudhary,Dhangadhi, Feb. 26: More than 2,522 water birds belonging to 59 species have been recorded in the wetlands of Kailali this year.

These numbers were documented during a winter bird count in the wetlands and water bodies to identify the number, status and species of resident and migratory water birds.

The survey, conducted in January 2025, covered various lakes and wetlands. At Ghodaghodi Lake, Nepal's first bird sanctuary listed as a World Ramsar site, 1,497 water birds of 35 species were recorded. 

Similarly, Jakhor Lake in Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City registered 458 water birds of 17 species. In the lower coastal region of the Karnali River, located at the border of Kailali and Bardiya, 554 water birds of 28 species were recorded.

Bird counts were also conducted in lakes within the Basanta forest area, including Rakhouna, Laukabhauka, Soniya Rupiyaa, Ghodatal and Raptaahi. However, ornithologist Hirulal Dangoura reported a significant decline in waterbird populations in these lakes, attributing the decrease to habitat destruction and human interference.

Every year, a bird count is conducted when various species of migratory water birds arrive at these wetlands from the northern hemisphere to escape the cold. Kailali's wetlands are known to host both resident and migratory species, including Greylag geese, Gadwall, Northern shoeler, Tufted duck, Common teal, Mallard, Common pochard, Great crested grebe, Little grebe and many others.