Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary UPSC

The Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The sanctuary was declared a bird sanctuary, and later recognized as a Ramsar site, emphasizing its ecological importance.

The fauna within the Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary consists of a diverse range of species. Mammals such as deer, wild boars, jackals, and smaller mammals can be found, along with numerous bird species, both resident and migratory.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Lake
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary Location

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is located in the Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is about 45 Km. from Gonda at Mankapur-Nawabganj Road and Mankapur-Faizabad Railway Line.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is the Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (also known as Lucknow Airport), located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. It is approximately 150 kilometers away from the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is the Gonda Junction Railway Station. It is approximately 45 kilometers away from the sanctuary.

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary History

1. Fisheries Department: Before its designation as a bird sanctuary, Parvati Arga was under the administration of the Fisheries Department. The area likely had a focus on fisheries-related activities and management.

2. Declaration as a Bird Sanctuary: On 23 May 1990, Parvati Arga was officially declared a bird sanctuary. This designation signifies its importance as a protected area for various bird species. The sanctuary aims to provide a suitable habitat for birds, promote conservation efforts, and facilitate research and observation.

3. Ramsar Site Designation: In 2019, Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary received the prestigious recognition of being declared a Ramsar site. Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance, recognized under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary Area

The Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is spread over an area of 10.84 sq km. The size of a bird sanctuary or any protected area is significant as it determines the available space and habitat for bird species.

The 10.84 sq km area of Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary provides a designated space for avian species to nest, breed, rest, and find food without disturbance from human activities. It serves as a protected haven for birds and contributes to their conservation and overall ecosystem health.

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary Lake

The Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary encompasses two oxbow lakes called Parvati Tal and Arga Tal, which are located approximately 1.5 kilometers apart. These lakes were formed when the Saryu River changed its course, leaving these water bodies as remnants in its old flow path.

Parvati Tal and Arga Tal are rain-fed lakes that exist within a naturally deep depression in the Gangetic plains of the terai region. The combined area of these lakes covers 1,084 hectares, providing a significant habitat for various bird species.

The Parvati Arga Sanctuary was established to protect and preserve the unique ecosystem surrounding these lakes. As a designated sanctuary, it offers a safe haven for birds and promotes conservation efforts in the region.

Oxbow lake:

Oxbow lakes are formed when a meandering river creates a loop-like bend, and over time, the river's course changes, cutting off the loop and leaving behind a crescent-shaped lake. These lakes often possess unique ecological characteristics and serve as vital habitats for a variety of bird species and other aquatic wildlife.

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary Flora

The Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is known for its diverse flora, which contributes to the overall ecosystem and provides a suitable habitat for various bird species.

(1) Aquatic Plants:

Oxbow lakes typically support a variety of aquatic plants. These can include floating plants like water lilies and lotus, submerged plants like Vallisneria and Hydrilla, and emergent plants like cattails and bulrushes. These plants play a vital role in maintaining water quality, providing food sources, and creating habitats for birds and aquatic organisms.

(2) Wetland Grasses and Rushes:

Grasses and rushes present along the shores of the lakes. These include species like common reed (Phragmites), marsh grasses, and sedges. They help stabilize the soil, offer nesting sites for birds, and provide cover and foraging opportunities.

(3) Riparian Trees and Shrubs:

Vegetation along the banks of the lakes consist of riparian trees and shrubs. Species such as willows, alders, and other wetland-adapted trees found. These trees offer shade, nesting sites, and perching spots for birds.

Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary Animals)

The Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, including various bird species and other wildlife.

Mammals:

Bird sanctuaries can also support a diverse mammalian population. Common mammals found in such ecosystems include deer, wild boars, jackals, foxes, and smaller mammals like squirrels and rodents. Predators such as foxes and jackals present to maintain a balance in the ecosystem.

Birds:

Some major local migratory and residential birds are-

Sarus Crane
Painted Stork
Indian Peafowl
White Ibis
Little Grebe
Fulvous Whistling Duck
Asian Openbill
White-necked Stork
Pheasant-tailed Jacana
Bronze Winged Jacana
Grey-headed Swamphen
Northern Lapwing
Black Drongo
Indian Roller

Some of the major migratory birds during the season are-

Greylag Goose
Northern Pintail
Cotton Teal
Red-crested Pochard
Gadwall
Northern Shoveler
Eurasian Coot
Mallard

Reptiles:

Wetland habitats often provide suitable conditions for reptiles and amphibians. You might encounter species such as turtles, snakes, lizards, and frogs. Marshy areas and water bodies attract various amphibian species, which contribute to the overall biodiversity of the sanctuary.