Fudam Bird Sanctuary UPSC

The Fudam Bird Sanctuary is located in the Indian Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

The sanctuary's primary focus is on providing a habitat for various bird species, including migratory birds, in its wetland and marshland areas. It's a place of conservation and a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the avian diversity in the region.

Table of Contents

Location
History
Area
Flora
Fauna
UPSC Questions

Fudam Bird Sanctuary Location

The Fudam Bird Sanctuary is located near the village of Fudam on Diu Island, which is part of the Indian Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Diu Island is situated off the southern coast of Gujarat, India.

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to Fudam Bird Sanctuary is the Diu Airport. Diu Airport serves domestic flights and is the closest air travel option to reach the sanctuary.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to Fudam Bird Sanctuary is the Veraval Railway Station. Veraval Railway Station is located about 80 kilometers away from the sanctuary and serves as a transportation hub for those arriving by train.

Fudam Bird Sanctuary History

The Fudam Bird Sanctuary has a relatively recent history as a formally recognized bird sanctuary. Here's a brief history of the sanctuary:

1. Establishment: The Fudam Bird Sanctuary was officially established in the year 1991.

2. Historical Significance: Prior to its formal declaration as a sanctuary, the Fudam area had historically been recognized as a natural sanctuary for water birds. Over time, its importance as a habitat for various bird species, including migratory ones, became evident. This historical significance likely played a role in the decision to formally designate it as a protected area.

Fudam Bird Sanctuary Area

The Fudam Bird Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 2.18 square kilometers. This relatively compact size encompasses the sanctuary's wetland habitat, mangrove scrub, and other natural features that provide a conducive environment for a variety of bird species, including migratory birds.

Fudam Bird Sanctuary Flora

The Fudam Bird Sanctuary is home to various types of flora that contribute to the diverse ecosystem of the sanctuary.

(1) Mangroves:

Mangrove trees are adapted to thrive in saline and brackish water environments. They provide important habitat for various bird species and other aquatic life. Some common mangrove species include Rhizophora, Avicennia, and Sonneratia.

(2) Aquatic Plants:

Wetlands often host a variety of aquatic plants such as water lilies, lotuses, and other submerged or floating vegetation.

(3) Marsh Plants:

Marshlands are characterized by grasses and other vegetation adapted to wet conditions. Reeds, rushes, and sedges are typical marshland plants that provide cover and nesting sites for birds.

(4) Hyphaene Dichotoma (Hoka Tree):

The Hoka tree is dominates the sanctuary. It is an endangered species in the region. It plays a significant role in the sanctuary's ecosystem.

Fudam Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Fudam Bird Sanctuary Animals)

The Fudam Bird Sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna, particularly bird species, that thrive in its wetland and marshland habitats. Here are some of the bird species and other fauna that can be found in the sanctuary:

Mammals:

Rodents
Bats
Small Carnivores

Birds:

Greater Flamingo
Ruddy Turnstone
Black-winged Stilt
Black-tailed Godwit
Western Reef Heron

Reptiles:

Snakes
Lizards