India commemorated World Environment Day by officially designating Nagi Bird Sanctuary and Nakti Bird Sanctuary as its latest wetlands of international significance.

These "Ramsar Sites" are situated in the Jhajha forest range of Jamui District in Bihar, India, and consist of man-made reservoirs. They are surrounded by hills and encompass catchments with dry deciduous forests.

Nakti Bird Sanctuary, listed as Site no. 2546 on the "Ramsar List," was originally created to facilitate irrigation with the construction of Nakti Dam. Since its establishment, the wetland and its surrounding areas have become home to a diverse array of wildlife. More than 150 species of birds, mammals, fish, aquatic plants, reptiles, and amphibians thrive here. Among them are globally threatened species such as the endangered Indian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) and a vulnerable native catfish known as Wallago attu.

In 1984, the Nakti Bird Sanctuary was officially recognised as a Bird Sanctuary, underscoring its significance as a critical wintering habitat for numerous migratory species. During the winter months, the sanctuary hosts a congregation of over 20,000 birds, including one of the largest gatherings of red-crested pochard (Netta rufina) found on the Indo-Gangetic plain.

The Nagi Bird Sanctuary (Site no. 2545) was established after the Nagi River was dammed, resulting in the creation of water bodies with clear water and aquatic vegetation over time.

In addition to its role in meeting the agricultural and domestic water needs of local communities, the site is well-known as a popular destination for recreational birdwatching.

Recognised locally as a Bird Sanctuary in 1984, the site gained international recognition as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) by BirdLife International due to its significance for migratory bird species.

The site serves as a critical wintering habitat for several threatened migratory species, including the critically endangered Baer's pochard (Aythya baeri) and the endangered steppe eagle (Aquila nipalensis).

In total, the Nagi Bird Sanctuary and its surroundings support habitat for more than 75 bird species, along with 33 fish species and 12 aquatic plant species. A notable feature of the sanctuary is its hosting of one of the largest gatherings of bar-headed goose (Anser indicus) on the Indo-Gangetic plain.

Furthermore, the wetland serves as a vital water source for irrigating over 9,800 acres of agricultural land. It also functions as a popular destination for recreation, tourism, and educational activities.

Image source: ANI