Lakh bahosi bird sanctuary: a waterbird abode

Wetland drainage and conversion is the major threat for Asian waterbirds, including the infilling of wetlands, principally for agriculture and aquaculture. Conservation action for wetland diversity and wetland habitats has been investigated and promoted at global level through Ramsar Convention on wetlands; Convention on Wetlands, Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) and Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Aquatic ecosystems have significant impact on migratory bird species. Wetland birds have a significant cultural and social role in local communities as well as being an important component of wetland ecosystem. The study was performed in Lakh-Bahosi Bird Sanctuary (LBS) during January 2014 to February 2015. LBS cover the 80 square kilometr area and provide excellent abode to waterbirds. Surveys were carried out seasonally and observations were made along line transects with the aid of 10x50 binoculars and Canon 70 D SLR camera. As the Lakh-Bahosi Bird Sanctuary (LBS) are a well-known bird-heaven and its abode high bird diversity and abundance, especially in winter season, in the present study we have documented the waterbirds diversity of Lakh-Bahoshi Bird Sanctuary, Kannauj District of Uttar Pradesh for better management and conservation. A total of 118 species of waterbirds have been reported including Grebes (2), Pelican (1), Ducks & Geese (21), Rails, Crakes, Gallinules & Coots (9), Jacanas (2), Cormorants & Darters (4), Herons, Egrets & Bitterns (12), Storks (6), Ibis and Spoonbills (4), Cranes (2), Waders & Shorebirds (31), Gulls (4), Terns (5), Kingfishers (3), Raptors (7) and Wagtails (5). This is a preliminary and basic effort to bring out the incredible waterbird fauna being maintained in the Lakh-Bahosi Bird Sanctuary. It is an excellent example of sustainable development and biodiversity conservation of wetland.