Kolleru Bird Sanctuary UPSC
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is a significant wetland and bird sanctuary located in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. This sanctuary is renowned for its importance as a habitat for a wide variety of migratory and resident bird species.
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is a critical habitat for both resident and migratory birds. It serves as a wintering ground for thousands of migratory birds that visit from various parts of the world.
Apart from its avian inhabitants, the sanctuary is also home to diverse aquatic flora and fauna, including various fish species. The wetland ecosystem is crucial for the region's biodiversity and helps maintain the ecological balance.
The best time to visit the Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is during the winter months, from November to March, when numerous migratory birds arrive here to escape the harsh winter conditions in their native habitats.
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Kolleru Bird Sanctuary Location
The Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is located around the Kolleru Lake, which forms the core of the sanctuary. It is situated between the Krishna and Godavari river basins in the West Godavari and Krishna districts of Andhra Pradesh, India. The sanctuary is situated near the town of Eluru, which is the nearest major city.
The sanctuary's location in the delta region of these two rivers provides an ideal habitat for a diverse range of migratory and resident bird species, making it a significant wetland and bird-watching destination in India.
Nearest Airport:
The nearest airport to Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is Rajahmundry Airport (officially known as Rajahmundry Domestic Airport) located in the city of Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. The airport is approximately 80-90 kilometers away from the sanctuary, and it's the closest airport that provides domestic flight services.
Nearest Railway Station:
As for the nearest railway station to Kolleru Bird Sanctuary, Eluru Railway Station is the most accessible option. Eluru Railway Station is located in the town of Eluru, which is the nearest major city to the sanctuary. It's at a convenient distance from the sanctuary and serves as a significant railway hub in the region, providing various train services to and from different parts of the country.
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary History
The Kolleru Bird Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh, India, has a rich history of ecological significance and conservation efforts. Here's a brief overview of its history:
1. Historical Significance: Kolleru Lake, on which the sanctuary is situated, has a long history of human habitation and agriculture in the region. The lake and its surroundings were known for their fertile lands and fisheries.
2. Date of Notification: Kolleru Lake, the heart of the sanctuary, was first officially acknowledged for its ecological significance in 1953. This early recognition laid the groundwork for its later conservation efforts.
3. Bird Sanctuary Status: A significant turning point occurred in 1999 when Kolleru received formal recognition as a Bird Sanctuary. This designation was made under India's Wild Life Protection Act of 1972, marking a significant step in its preservation journey.
4. Ramsar Site: In 2002, Kolleru Lake was designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. This international recognition highlighted the ecological importance of the site and the need for its conservation.
5. Important Bird Area (IBA): Many birds migrate here in winter. It regularly supports more than 50,000 waterfowl, due to which it was selected as an Important Bird Area (IBA).
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary Area
The Kolleru Bird Sanctuary covers an extensive area of approximately 308 square kilometers (119 square miles). This sanctuary area encompassing freshwater lakes, marshes, mudflats, and surrounding habitats.
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary River
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is situated between the Krishna and Godavari river basins in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. While it is not directly on a river, it is located within the larger delta region formed by the confluence of these two major rivers.
The sanctuary primarily consists of wetlands, lakes, marshes, and mudflats, which are influenced by the water flow and drainage patterns from both the Krishna and Godavari river systems.
These water sources contribute to the sanctuary's unique ecosystem and make it an attractive habitat for a wide variety of bird species, both resident and migratory.
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary Lake
The Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is centered around Kolleru Lake, which is the main water body within the sanctuary. Kolleru Lake is a large freshwater lake located in the West Godavari and Krishna districts of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India and plays a crucial role in the sanctuary's ecosystem.
Kolleru Lake is a dynamic and seasonally varying wetland, with its size fluctuating depending on the monsoon rains and water inflow from the Krishna and Godavari rivers. During the monsoon season, the lake expands significantly, providing ample water and food resources for various bird species. As the water recedes during the dry season, it exposes mudflats and shallow areas that attract migratory birds.
The lake's ever-changing water levels and the presence of diverse aquatic flora and fauna make it an ideal habitat for both resident and migratory birds. It is a vital breeding and feeding ground for numerous bird species, making it one of the most important bird sanctuaries in India.
Visitors to the Kolleru Bird Sanctuary can witness a stunning array of avian life along the shores and waters of Kolleru Lake, particularly during the winter months when migratory birds flock to the area.
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary Flora
The flora of the Kolleru Bird Sanctuary plays a crucial role in supporting its diverse avian and aquatic life. The sanctuary's ecosystem consists of a variety of plant species, including the following:
(1) Aquatic Plants:
Many aquatic plants thrive in the waters of Kolleru Lake, providing essential food and shelter for aquatic life. Common aquatic plants in the sanctuary include various species of submerged and floating plants such as water hyacinth, water lilies, duckweed, and various types of algae.
(2) Reed Beds:
The sanctuary features extensive reed beds along its shores. These reeds, including species like Phragmites karka and Typha angustifolia, create a suitable nesting and feeding habitat for many bird species. These reeds also stabilize the lake's banks and improve water quality.
(3) Grasses and Shrubs:
Grasslands and shrubs can be found in the sanctuary's surrounding areas. These plants contribute to the overall biodiversity of the region and provide cover and forage for wildlife.
(4) Trees:
While the sanctuary is predominantly a wetland ecosystem, there may be scattered trees in the vicinity, such as tamarind, neem, and palm trees. These trees offer perches for birds and contribute to the overall landscape.
(5) Rice Fields:
The region around Kolleru Lake is known for its rice cultivation. Paddy fields in the vicinity of the sanctuary, especially during the non-growing season, may provide additional foraging opportunities for various bird species.
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary Fauna (Kolleru Bird Sanctuary Animals)
The Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is renowned for its rich and diverse avian fauna, with a wide range of migratory and resident bird species. Here are some of the notable bird species that can be found in the sanctuary:
Mammals:
Though not as prominent as the avian life, the sanctuary is inhabited by small mammals like the Indian mongoose and Indian jackal.
Birds:
Which bird is protected in Kolleru Bird Sanctuary?
- Avocet
- Wigeon
- Gadwall
- Shoveller
- Painted Stork
- Spotbilled Pelican
Reptiles:
The sanctuary is also home to reptiles like water monitor lizards, Indian pythons and Indian Golden Gecko.
Kolleru Bird Sanctuary UPSC Questions
Q. Kolleru Bird Sanctuary in which district?/The Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is located in which state of India?
A. The Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is located in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It spans two districts in Andhra Pradesh:
- West Godavari District
- Krishna District
The sanctuary is situated between these two districts and covers a significant portion of their wetland areas, including Kolleru Lake and its surroundings.
Q. In which year was Kolleru ;ake declared as a bird sanctuary?/When did government of India declared the Kolleru Lake as bird sanctuary?
A. Kolleru Lake was officially declared as a bird sanctuary in the year 1999. This declaration was made under India's Wild Life Protection Act of 1972, recognizing the lake's importance as a critical habitat for various bird species.
Q. Which birds migrate to Kolleru Lake?
A. Kolleru Lake attracts a wide variety of migratory birds during the winter months. Some of the bird species that migrate to Kolleru Lake include:
(i) Greater Flamingos: These large, pink-colored birds are a prominent and iconic migratory species in Kolleru Lake.
(ii) Painted Storks: Known for their striking black and white plumage, painted storks visit the sanctuary in significant numbers during the migratory season.
(iii) Spot-billed Pelicans: These large birds with distinctive spotted bills are also commonly seen during migration.
(iv) Sandpipers: Various species of sandpipers, such as the common sandpiper and curlew sandpiper, visit the sanctuary's mudflats and shores.
(v) Gulls: Different gull species, including the black-headed gull and brown-headed gull, can be seen in large numbers during the winter months.
(vi) Ducks: Various species of ducks, such as northern pintails, common teal, and shoveler ducks, migrate to Kolleru Lake as well.
These migratory birds travel from colder regions to the sanctuary's milder climate, which provides them with suitable feeding and breeding grounds during the winter season. Kolleru Lake's wetland ecosystem and abundant food sources make it an attractive destination for these migratory avian visitors.
Q. Kolleru Bird Sanctuary best time to visit?
A. The best time to visit the Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is during the winter months, from November to March. This period coincides with the peak of the migratory bird season when thousands of migratory species from various parts of the world arrive at the sanctuary. Here are some reasons why this time is ideal for visiting:
Q. What is Kolleru Bird Sanctuary famous for?
A. Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is famous for several reasons, making it a notable and renowned conservation area in India. Here are the key aspects for which Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is famous:
(i) Bird Diversity: The sanctuary is famous for its rich and diverse avian fauna. It serves as a critical habitat for both resident and migratory bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and ornithologists. Visitors can witness a stunning variety of birdlife, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, herons, ibises, sandpipers, and many others.
(ii) Migratory Birds: Kolleru Bird Sanctuary is particularly famous for hosting thousands of migratory birds during the winter months. These birds travel from various parts of the world to escape harsh winter conditions in their native habitats. The sight of flocks of migratory birds is a remarkable and iconic feature of the sanctuary.
(iii) Ramsar Wetland Designation: The sanctuary's international recognition as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance adds to its fame. This designation highlights its ecological significance and the need for its conservation and protection on a global scale.
(iv) Biodiversity Hotspot: Kolleru Lake and its surrounding wetlands are considered biodiversity hotspots, supporting a wide range of flora and fauna. Apart from birds, the sanctuary is home to various fish species, reptiles, and other wildlife.
(v) Cultural Significance: The sanctuary is also famous for its cultural significance, as it is often associated with local festivals and traditional practices of the nearby communities. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the cultural heritage of the region.
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