KATHMANDU: The survival of birds in lakes and wetlands outside Kanchanpur’s conservation areas is under increasing threat due to habitat destruction, poaching, illegal trade, and environmental pollution.
Experts warn that factors such as climate change, the use of pesticides, water pollution, and the over-extraction of water for irrigation are significantly impacting bird populations.
Ornithologist Hiralal Dagaura of the Bird Conservation Society of Nepal (BCN) said that 86 percent of birds in the region are at risk due to wetland encroachment.
“In many areas, pesticides are being used to kill birds, while their habitats are being destroyed, leading to a severe decline in their numbers,” Dagaura said.
A survey conducted at Puraini Lake in Belauri Municipality in 2017 recorded 2,200 waterfowl, but by 2025, the number had plummeted to 705.
Wetlands play a vital role in supporting biodiversity and human livelihoods, providing fresh water and food resources. According to conservationist Sandesh Chaudhary, more than half of the world’s food depends on wetland-grown crops, and wetlands serve as crucial resting, feeding, and breeding grounds for migratory birds.
Belauri Municipality’s Deputy Mayor, Jogram Chaudhary, stressed the need for collective efforts to protect wetlands, pledging to collaborate with BCN on conservation initiatives. Meanwhile, bird conservationist Suban Chaudhary emphasized the urgency of banning fishing and the use of pesticides in lakes to safeguard bird populations.
Kanchanpur is home to 480 bird species, including nine on the protected list, such as the white eagle, black eagle, and black-backed crane. The National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act imposes fines and imprisonment for harming protected birds, yet illegal activities continue to pose a serious threat.
With increasing awareness efforts and conservation programs, experts hope to mitigate these threats and ensure the survival of Kanchanpur’s rich birdlife.
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