Migratory birds begin arriving in Nepal to escape winter
Summary
Migratory birds have begun arriving in Nepal’s wetlands, lakes and river areas as winter approaches, with more than 160 species expected each year. Bird experts warn that wetland loss, poaching and climate change are threatening these habitats.
Key Points
- Migratory birds are arriving in Nepal from northern regions between September and November to escape winter cold.
- Species such as red-crested pochard, gadwall, common teal and grey-headed lapwing have already been spotted in Koshi Tappu, Barju Lake and wetlands across Jhapa and Sunsari.
- Experts say birds travel from Siberia, Russia, Tibet and Central Asia, and some cross mountain elevations of 5,000 to 6,000 metres.
- Conservationists warn that wetland destruction, loss of feeding grounds, poaching and climate change are endangering migratory bird habitats.
