Migratory birds may give a miss to Rajasthans Keoladeo National Park

Migratory birds could give a miss to the Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan this year due to scanty rains.

Bharatpur (Rajasthan), July 26 : Migratory birds could give a miss to the Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan this year due to scanty rains.

Known as 'the heaven for birds', the park has served as an alternative habitat for migratory and subcontinent birds.

Park authorities have confirmed that most water bodies in the sanctuary are dry, and added that this year's aridity has created a critical situation.

The sanctuary has 11 sq km wide lake, which is the main food source of migratory birds.

A world wildlife heritage list, the park has remained the centre of attraction for both foreign and domestic wildlife lovers.

Near about 70 to 80 species of migratory birds arrive in the park annually, including Siberian Crane, Porment, E- Grade, Snake bird, White Irish, Spoon and Padent.

However for last few years, there was massive decrease in the number of the winged visitors, also resulting in the decrease of tourists.

Lack of rains during the past two years, has badly affected the bird population, as also the residents in the region.

"The whole eco-system is water-based. If there isn't any water there will be no grasslands and lakes and this whole region will turn into woodland. Therefore, we need to find an alternative to preserve this Park," said Sunayam Sharma, the director of the Park.

In 2004, the Rajasthan Government led by Vasundhara Raje succumbed to pressure from farmers to prevent water from being diverted to the sanctuary. The water supply to the park dropped from 540,000,000 to 18,000,000 cubic feet.

The result was an ecological disaster with the marshlands turning dry and inhospitable.

One of the finest bird parks in the world, Keoladeo National Park also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a reserve that offers protection to faunal species as well.

Besides a large species of bird population, the sanctuary is also home to Sambar, Chital, Nilgai and Boar - all Indian species of deer.

ANI