Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Bhaniyana Wetland in Jaisalmer district, situated in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan, supports exceptional avian diversity and plays a crucial role in bird conservation along the Central Asian Flyway.The study documented 125 bird species across multiple surveys, making it one of the richest wetlands in the desert region.Of these, the family Scolopacidae, consisting of waders and shorebirds, was most abundant, followed by Anatidae, Accipitridae, and Muscicapidae.The wetland supports numerous migratory and resident species, including Demoiselle Crane, Imperial Eagle, and several species of ducks, herons, and larks.Notably, species such as Greater Flamingo, Osprey, Red-necked phalarope and Whitebrowed Fantail Flycatcher were recorded for the first time in this region, reflecting the wetland's ecological richness and habitat variety.According to the IUCN Red List (2025-2), most species were of Least Concern, with eight species under threat categories-two Endangered (Steppe Eagle, Egyptian Vulture), two Vulnerable (Common Pochard, Tawny Eagle), and four Near Threatened.Comparatively, Bhaniyana exhibits higher diversity than other wetlands in Rajasthan and Haryana.Despite its importance, the site faces pressures like invasive mesquite growth and minor sand mining.The study recommends designating Bhaniyana as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) to ensure longterm conservation of its avian fauna and habitats.
Source: Biological Forum
Author: Mamta Rawat
Language: English
Topic: Avian ecology and behavior
Subfield: Ecology
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4417483123