Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary UPSC
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary is a well-known bird sanctuary located in the state of Bihar, India.
The sanctuary is a crucial breeding and wintering ground for migratory birds. Every year, thousands of migratory birds from different parts of the world visit the lake during the winter season.
The sanctuary attracts both local and international tourists, contributing to eco-tourism and generating awareness about the importance of conserving natural habitats for birds and other wildlife.
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Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary Location
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary is located in the Begusarai district of Bihar, India. It lies about 22 kilometers to the north-east of the district headquarters, Begusarai town. It is easily accessible by road from nearby towns and cities, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary is Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport (also known as Patna Airport), which is located in Patna, the capital city of Bihar, India. Patna Airport is approximately 127 kilometers (about 79 miles) away from the bird sanctuary.
Nearest Railway Station:
As for the nearest railway station, the sanctuary is easily accessible from the Begusarai railway station. The Begusarai railway station is located in the town of Begusarai, Bihar, and is situated about 29 kilometers (approximately 18 miles) from the Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary.
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary History
The history of Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary dates back to ancient times, and the area has long been recognized as an important habitat for birds and wildlife. Here is a brief overview of the sanctuary's history:
1. Ancient and Historical Importance: Kanwar Lake, the centerpiece of the bird sanctuary, has historical significance in the region. The lake finds mention in ancient texts and literature, making it a place of cultural importance for the local communities.
2. Established: Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary was established in 1987. Since then, it has been recognized as an important wetland habitat and has been actively managed for the conservation of its avian and ecological diversity.
3. Recognition as a Ramsar Site: In 2020, the Kanwar Lake was designated as a "Wetland of International Importance" under the Ramsar Convention. This recognition highlights the sanctuary's ecological value as a crucial wetland habitat for waterfowl and migratory birds.
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary Area
The Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary covers an approximate area of 67 square kilometers (about 26 square miles). This significant expanse makes it one of the largest bird sanctuaries in India. The sanctuary includes the Kanwar Lake, a prominent freshwater lake, which serves as a crucial habitat for both resident and migratory bird species.
The vast area of the sanctuary provides ample space for a diverse range of avian species to thrive and create a safe environment for nesting, breeding, and wintering. The large size of the sanctuary is an essential factor in attracting a substantial number of migratory birds during the winter season, making it an excellent location for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts to observe various bird species in their natural habitat.
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary Lake
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary is centered around the Kanwar Lake, which is the focal point of the sanctuary. The Kanwar Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India and plays a crucial role in attracting a wide variety of bird species, both resident and migratory.
The Kanwar Taal or Kabar Taal Lake or Kabartal Wetland located in Begusarai district of Bihar, India, is Asia's largest freshwater oxbow lake. It is a residual oxbow lake, formed due to meandering of Burhi Gandak river, a tributary of Ganga, in the geological past.
The Kanwar Lake covers an approximate area of about 67 square kilometers (around 26 square miles), making it a significant water body. It is a freshwater lake fed by rainfall and local runoff from the surrounding catchment area. The presence of freshwater makes it an ideal habitat for various aquatic plants and supports a diverse range of birdlife.
The Kanwar Lake is particularly renowned for attracting a large number of migratory birds during the winter season. Thousands of birds from different parts of the world visit the lake during this time, seeking refuge and food in the sanctuary's protected environment.
In recognition of its importance as a wetland habitat for waterfowl and migratory birds, the Kanwar Lake was designated as a Ramsar site in 2020. This designation highlights its international significance in terms of conservation and protection.
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary Flora
The Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary is characterized by a diverse range of flora that thrives in the freshwater lake and the surrounding wetland ecosystem. The presence of various aquatic plants and vegetation provides essential habitats and food sources for the resident and migratory bird species.
Here are some of the key types of flora found in the sanctuary:
(1) Aquatic Plants:
The lake and the wetlands are home to various aquatic plants such as water lilies, lotus, water hyacinth, and various submerged plants. These plants play a crucial role in providing cover, nesting sites, and food sources for birds and other aquatic organisms.
(2) Reed Beds and Grasses:
Along the lake's edges and in the wetlands, you can find reed beds and various types of grasses. These provide shelter and nesting opportunities for birds like herons, egrets, and various waterfowl.
(3) Trees and Shrubs:
The sanctuary's surrounding areas may have trees and shrubs such as sal (Shorea robusta), babul (Acacia nilotica), neem (Azadirachta indica), and various types of bushes. These trees and shrubs provide perching spots and nesting sites for birds.
(4) Wetland Vegetation:
Wetland vegetation, including different types of marsh plants, rushes, and sedges, are common in the sanctuary. These plants help stabilize the soil, filter water, and support various species of insects and invertebrates that form a part of the birds' diet.
(5) Grasslands:
In certain areas of the sanctuary, you may find grasslands, which are home to various ground-nesting birds like lapwings, plovers, and sandpipers.
(6) Canebrakes:
Canebrakes, consisting of dense growths of tall reeds or bamboo, are also present in some parts of the sanctuary. These provide excellent hiding places and nesting sites for birds.
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary Animals)
The Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary is renowned for its rich and diverse fauna, with a wide variety of bird species being the main attraction. The sanctuary provides an ideal habitat for both resident and migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Here are some of the notable fauna found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
- Jackals
- Hares
- Indian Grey Mongoose
- Palm Civet
- Indian Flying Fox
Birds:
- Red-headed Vulture
- White-rumped Vulture
- Oriental white-backed Vulture
- Long-billed Vulture
- Indian Vulture
- Sociable Lapwing
- Baer’s Pochard
- Greater Adjutant
- Greater Spotted Eagle
- Lesser Kestrel
- Sarus Crane
- Indian Darter
- Painted Stork
- Black-bellied Tern
Reptiles:
- Indian Python
- Indian Cobra
- Indian Rat Snake
- Monitor Lizard
- Water Snakes
Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. When was Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary established?
A. The Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary was established in 1987. Since its establishment, it has been recognized as an important wetland habitat and has been actively managed for the conservation of its avian and ecological diversity. The sanctuary's designation as a Ramsar site in 2020 further solidified its significance as a vital area for bird conservation and environmental protection.
Q. Kanwar Lake is situated in which state?
A. Kanwar Lake is situated in the state of Bihar, India. It is one of the prominent bird sanctuaries in the region and is located in the Begusarai district of Bihar. The sanctuary's large freshwater oxbow lake, along with the surrounding wetlands, provides an important habitat for a diverse range of bird species, making it a significant destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts in the state.
Q. Which river is Kanwar Lake meandering of?
A. The Kanwar Lake is a result of the meandering of the Burhi Gandak River, which is a tributary of the Ganges (Ganga) River. The meandering process of the Burhi Gandak River in the geological past formed the oxbow lake, now known as Kanwar Lake. The lake is situated approximately 22 km north-west of Begusarai Town in Manjhaul, Begusarai district, Bihar, India.
Q. What is Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary famous for?
A. Kanwar Lake Bird Sanctuary is famous for being one of the largest freshwater oxbow lakes in Asia and its rich avian diversity. The sanctuary is a vital habitat for both resident and migratory bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Some of the main reasons for its fame are:
(i) Avian Diversity: The sanctuary attracts a wide variety of bird species, including migratory birds that visit during the winter season. Thousands of birds flock to the lake, making it a prime location for birdwatching and bird photography.
(ii) Ramsar Site: Kanwar Lake was designated as a Ramsar site in 2020 due to its significance as a wetland of international importance. This recognition highlights its ecological value and the need for conservation efforts.
(iii) Eco-Tourism Destination: The sanctuary has become a popular eco-tourism destination, attracting visitors from different parts of India and the world. Tourists and nature enthusiasts come to observe the diverse avian population and experience the natural beauty of the wetland ecosystem.
(iv) Flood Mitigation: The lake's ability to absorb floodwaters during the monsoon season provides a vital service in Bihar State, where a significant portion of the land is vulnerable to inundation. It helps mitigate floods and plays a crucial role in the region's ecology.
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