Porbandar Bird Sanctuary

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary UPSC

The Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is a protected area located in the state of Gujarat, India. The sanctuary features wetland habitats with various types of aquatic vegetation, reeds, and other plants suitable for birds and aquatic life. 

The sanctuary is renowned for its diverse avian population, encompassing both resident and migratory bird species. Notably, it supports a significant population of flamingos, including greater and lesser flamingos.

The sanctuary is a destination for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers, and tourists interested in birdwatching and eco-tourism. It also holds educational value, raising awareness about avian conservation.

Table of Contents Location History Area Flora Fauna UPSC Questions

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary Location

The Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is located within the city of Porbandar in the Porbandar District of Gujarat, India. Porbandar is a coastal city in the western part of Gujarat and is known for being the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi. 

Nearest Airport:

The nearest airport to the Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is the Porbandar Airport. It is a domestic airport located in the city of Porbandar itself. This airport serves domestic flights and provides connectivity to various cities within India.

Nearest Railway Station:

The nearest railway station to the Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is the Porbandar Railway Station. This station is well-connected to major cities within Gujarat and across India.

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary History

1. Establishment: The Porbandar Bird Sanctuary was officially established as a protected area for birds in November 1988. The local governance of the Porbandar District played a role in designating the area as a sanctuary, recognizing its importance as a habitat for various bird species, including migratory and resident birds.

2. 1990: In 1990, the Porbandar Bird Sanctuary came under the oversight and management of the Gujarat Forest Department. This step was taken to ensure proper conservation, protection, and management of the sanctuary's bird populations and their habitat.

3. Present and Beyond: Since its establishment, the sanctuary has served as an example of the coexistence of humans and nature, demonstrating the importance of preserving natural habitats within urban environments. It falls on the migratory route of several bird species, making it a significant stopover point for migratory birds traveling through the region.

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary Area

The Porbandar Bird Sanctuary covers an area of approximately 0.09 square kilometers, which is equivalent to about 9.33 hectares. This relatively small area is located within the city of Porbandar in the state of Gujarat, India. 

Despite its size, the sanctuary provides habitat for a variety of bird species, including migratory and resident birds, and serves as an important stopover point for birds traveling along migratory routes.

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary Flora

(1) Aquatic Plants:

These plants grow in or near water bodies and provide important habitat for aquatic insects and other small organisms that birds feed on. They also offer cover for nesting and resting.

(2) Reeds and Rushes:

Tall, grass-like plants found in wetlands that offer shelter and nesting sites for birds. They often grow in shallow water.

(3) Floating Plants:

Such as water lilies, which provide a platform for birds to rest on and may attract insects that birds feed on.

(4) Shrubs and Trees:

These can be found along the water's edge or on the surrounding land, providing perches for birds, nesting sites, and potential food sources.

(5) Grasses:

Both in and around wetland areas, grasses can provide nesting materials and hiding places for birds.

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Porbandar Bird Sanctuary Animals)

Mammals:

• Small Rodents
• Bats
• Foxes
• Mongoose

Birds:

• Flamingoes (Greater and Lesser)
• Grebes
• Pelicans
• Ducks
• Geese
• Avocet
• Coots
• Cormorants
• Herons
• Egrets
• Bittern
• Storks
• Ibis
• Spoonbill
• Cranes
• Whistling Teals
• Gulls
• Tern
• Jacanas
• Ruff
• Red Shanks
• Indian Roller

Reptiles:

• Snakes
• Turtles
• Lizards

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary UPSC Questions

Q. In which state is Porbandar Bird Sanctuary present?

A. The Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is situated within the city of Porbandar in the Porbandar District of Gujarat. 

Q. What is Porbandar Bird Sanctuary famous for?

A. The Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is primarily famous for being a habitat that supports a diverse range of bird species, both resident and migratory. Some of the key features that make the sanctuary notable include:

(i) Avian Diversity: The sanctuary is known for its varied bird population, which includes species like flamingos, grebes, pelicans, ducks, geese, herons, egrets, storks, ibises, and more. It provides a suitable habitat for both resident birds and those that migrate through the area.

(ii) Flamingo Habitat: The sanctuary is particularly renowned for hosting a significant population of flamingos, including both greater and lesser flamingos. Flamingos are charismatic and iconic birds known for their distinctive appearance.

(iii) Migratory Stopover: The sanctuary falls on the migratory route of many bird species, making it an important stopover point for migratory birds during their journeys. This adds to its significance as a hub for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.