Bardiya’s rhinos are crossing into India for water and greener pastures
Summary
Bardiya National Park’s rhino population is falling as water shortages, shrinking grasslands and fewer wallowing ponds push animals toward India’s Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. Conservationists warn that habitat loss and human pressure are intensifying conflicts and threatening the future of the one-horned rhino in western Nepal.
Key Points
- Bardiya National Park’s one-horned rhino population has declined despite years of anti-poaching success, mainly because of water shortages and shrinking habitat.
- Around 20 rhinos are believed to have crossed into India’s Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary through the Khata corridor in the past two years.
- Officials say better habitat management, including more ponds and grasslands, is needed to reduce rhino conflicts and keep animals in Bardiya.
- Nepal’s 2021 national census counted 752 one-horned rhinos, including 38 in Bardiya National Park.
