Bird Sanctuaries In Uttar Pradesh
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Uttar Pradesh lies a haven for avian enthusiasts and nature lovers alike: the Bird Sanctuary. Renowned for its diverse avifauna and serene ambiance, this sanctuary offers a mesmerizing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Home to a plethora of migratory and indigenous bird species, visitors can witness the graceful flight of cranes, herons, and countless other winged wonders. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of wetlands and lush greenery as you explore this sanctuary’s rich biodiversity. Discover the harmony of nature and unwind in the company of feathered friends in this enchanting sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh.
1. Samaspur Bird Sanctuary
The Samaspur Bird Sanctuary, situated near Salon town in Rai Bareli district, Uttar Pradesh, was established in 1987 with the aim of preserving a variety of bird species, including migratory ones. Spanning across 780 hectares, it is located approximately 122 kilometers away from Lucknow. This sanctuary is a haven for a diverse avian population, with more than 250 bird species making it their home.
Even in the scorching summers, it offers a relatively favorable climate for these feathered creatures. Notably, the sanctuary is famous for hosting a wide range of bird species, such as vultures, kingfishers, spot-billed teals, and whistling teals. The Surkhab bird, which is native to the region, thrives here, and the sanctuary’s lake is home to over 11 different fish species.
2. Sandi Bird Sanctuary
Sandi Bird Sanctuary, also known as “Deher Jheel,” is a protected area spanning 309 hectares. It was established in 1991 and is located between Latitude 26°53″N to 27°46″N and Longitude 79°41″E to 80°46″E.
Situated around 20 kilometers from Hardoi Tower on the Hardoi-Sandi road, this sanctuary is a haven for both local and migratory birds. The nearby ‘Garra’ river provides a resting place for these birds before they visit the sanctuary. The main focus of the sanctuary is the conservation of wetlands, including the preservation of aquatic plants and animals.
It has been recognized as an ‘Important Bird Area’ by the Bombay Natural History Society and is listed under the National Wetland Conservation Programme by the Ministry of Environment & Forest, Government of India.
3. Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary
The Vijay Sagar Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Mahoba district with its Divisional Headquarters in Mirzapur, spans across an area of 262.20 hectares and is conveniently accessible by both road and rail.
The nearest railway station is Mahoba, located along the Allahabad-Jhansi train route, and it can be easily reached by road from Allahabad and Jhansi. If you prefer air travel, the closest airport is Khajuraho. This sanctuary is a habitat for a variety of bird species, including Black-necked cranes, Hornbills, Coots, Darters, Painted Storks, Brahminy ducks, and Lesser whistling ducks.
The surrounding flora consists of Bamboo, Palas, Khair, and more. Developed along the picturesque shores of Vijay Sagar, a lake dating back to the 11th century, Vijay Sagar Pakshi Vihar serves as a sanctuary for migratory birds during the winter months and also offers opportunities for water sports.
4. Saman Bird Sanctuary
The Saman Bird Sanctuary, located in Mainpuri district of Uttar Pradesh, is a seasonal oxbow lake found on the Ganges floodplain. Its survival depends largely on the arrival of the south-westerly monsoon in July and August, which brings most of its annual rainfall.
This sanctuary is home to more than 50,000 waterbirds, with 187 different bird species recorded. It serves as a crucial wintering ground for many migratory birds, including the greylag goose. Endangered species like the sarus crane and greater spotted eagle also call this area home.
The sanctuary offers important ecosystem services, such as freshwater supply for agriculture, recreational activities, and nature-based tourism focused on its rich bird population. However, encroachment from human settlements and salinization are major threats, highlighting the need for effective management by the Office of the Conservator of Forest (Wildlife).
5. Patna Bird Sanctuary
The Patna Bird Sanctuary, located in Jalesar on the Agra-Etah-Aligarh road, may be the smallest in Uttar Pradesh at just 1 sq km, but it is a true paradise for bird enthusiasts. With over 180 bird species calling it home, this sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Whether you prefer traveling by road or rail, the sanctuary is easily accessible, with the nearest railway station being Etah. During the winter months, the sanctuary’s shallow lake becomes a vibrant hub for migratory birds, thanks to the replenishing rainwater.
In December and January, you can witness the incredible sight of over 60,000 birds, including Rosy Pelicans, Lesser Flamingos, Eurasian Spoonbills, Mallards, and Bar-headed Geese. Among them, the Northern Pintail takes the crown as the most common migratory bird, outnumbering all others.
6. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
The Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is located about 43 kilometers away from Lucknow on NH-25 (Lucknow-Kanpur Highway) in Nawabganj Tehsil, Unnao district, Uttar Pradesh. It covers an area of approximately 225 hectares and was established on August 7, 1984, with the aim of preserving both local and migratory bird species and their natural habitat.
This sanctuary is not only important for its conservation efforts but also holds historical significance. According to belief, Lord Laxaman rested at the lake here while returning to Ayodhya. During the winter season, the sanctuary becomes a paradise for a wide variety of local and migratory birds, with open bill storks being the most iconic residents.
7. Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary
Established back in 1988, the Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary was specifically established to protect and conserve wetlands. Its main focus is on preserving the diverse range of local and migratory bird species, as well as their natural habitats and aquatic ecosystems. This sanctuary has gained recognition as an ‘Important Bird Area’ by the Bombay Natural History Society and has also been designated as a wetland under the National Wetland Conservation Programme by the Indian Ministry of Environment & Forest.
The sanctuary is made up of two primary lakes, namely Lakh and Bahosi, which serve as a nesting and breeding ground for approximately 50 thousand waterfowl every year between November and March. Due to its abundant birdlife, it has become a popular destination for both bird enthusiasts and tourists. Covering an impressive area of 80 square kilometers, it stands as one of India’s largest bird sanctuaries. Additionally, it is also home to various other wildlife species including jackals, blue bulls, mongooses, fishing cats, and monkeys.
8. Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
Also known as Keetham Lake, the Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is renowned for being a haven for waterfowl. It was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1991 and is home to over 126 species of migratory and resident waterfowl. Originally covering an area of 4.03 sq km, the sanctuary’s boundaries were expanded to 8 sq km by the Forest Department through the planting of additional trees to enhance the natural habitat.
Conveniently situated along the Delhi-Agra highway, visitors can drive a portion of the way and then continue on foot along the walking path. The sanctuary boasts wooded areas with various trails, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as hog deer, spotted deer, nilgai, and monitor lizards.
9. Okhla Bird Sanctuary
The Okhla Bird Sanctuary (OBS) covers an area of about 4 square kilometers and can be found at the entrance of NOIDA in Gautam Budh Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh. Situated at the point where the Yamuna River enters Uttar Pradesh from Delhi, OBS is among the 15 bird sanctuaries in the state.
Its prime location provides a home to a wide variety of bird species, including those from thorny scrub, grassland, and wetland habitats. The sanctuary was established due to the construction of the Okhla Barrage and was officially declared a sanctuary by the Uttar Pradesh Government in 1990. OBS is now acknowledged as one of India’s 466 Important Bird Areas (IBAs).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the establishment of a bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh offers an unparalleled opportunity for ecotourism and wildlife conservation. Nestled amidst diverse landscapes, it promises a haven for avian enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its rich biodiversity and serene ambiance, the sanctuary serves as a sanctuary not only for the birds but also for visitors seeking solace in the lap of nature.
Through sustainable tourism practices, it fosters awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats and ecosystems. Thus, the bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship, inviting all to experience the beauty and tranquility of its avian inhabitants.
Frequently Asked Questions
A bird sanctuary is a designated area where various species of birds are protected and conserved. It provides a safe habitat for birds to breed, nest, and feed without disturbance from human activities.
The bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh is located at the famous Dudhwa National Park. Dudhwa National Park is situated in the Lakhimpur Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh and is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including a diverse avian population.
The bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh hosts a wide variety of bird species, including migratory birds like the Siberian crane, Indian skimmer, white-rumped vulture, Sarus crane, and many more. Additionally, it’s also home to numerous resident bird species like the painted stork, bar-headed goose, and kingfishers.
The best time to visit the bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh is during the winter months, specifically between November and March. This period coincides with the migratory season when numerous bird species from colder regions flock to the sanctuary, making it a prime time for bird watching and photography.
Visitors to the bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh can avail themselves of various facilities such as guided bird-watching tours, nature trails, interpretation centers, and accommodations within or near the sanctuary premises. Additionally, there are provisions for eco-friendly transportation, bird watching hides, and knowledgeable guides to enhance the visitor experience while ensuring minimal disturbance to the birds and their habitats.
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