Patna: The calm and beautiful Rajdhani Reservoir of Patna, the capital of Bihar, is buzzing with the chirping of migratory birds these days. This reservoir currently remains a major stop for migratory birds from all over the world.
These beautiful birds, who have traveled thousands of miles by flying from Russia, China, America and various countries of Europe, are making their temporary home here. Due to which this reservoir has been transformed into a beautiful hotspot of biodiversity. This view is not only attracting nature lovers but is also thrilling the school students coming on tour.
Near Secretariat Complex: Rajdhani Reservoir is located near the Main Secretariat complex in Patna. Its calm environment, ample water and surrounding green areas make it an ideal resting place for migratory birds. The insects, small fish and aquatic plants present here provide an abundant source of food for these birds.
During the cold season, when the countries of the Northern Hemisphere are covered with snow and there is a shortage of food, then these birds move towards countries like India in search of warm and favorable climate. If you come to Bihar on a trip, there are many water bodies in Patna, there is even a big bank of river Ganga. But these birds take shelter only in the Rajdhani Reservoir located in the middle of the city.
Migratory birds come from cold regions: District Forest Officer of Patna District, Rajeev Kumar said that during the winter season, it is very cold in the areas of Russia and China. Due to which birds travel a distance of thousands of miles to reach the capital reservoir. At present, the major international migratory birds seen in the reservoir in this season include Comb Duck, Lalsar, Gadwal, Common Coot, Northern Pintail and Lesser Whistling Duck. Many of these species travel here from remote areas of Central Asia, Siberia, Mongolia and even Europe.
A peaceful environment is created here for birds: DFO Rajiv Kumar said that leaving the icy lakes of Russia and China and reaching this reservoir of Patna is a proof of the amazing flying ability and stamina of these birds. He told that there are many water bodies in Patna but it is only here that these birds are seen. The reason behind this is that the Rajdhani Reservoir has been kept away from human activity.
”These birds need a secluded environment, where there is provision for food and shelter. Therefore, a calm environment is available for birds here. There are islands in the middle of the pond. Apart from this, there are bamboo and wooden structures at various places where the birds can rest., Rajiv Kumar, DFO, Patna
Human activity is prohibited: Rajeev Kumar told that only a small group of researchers and school children studying animals and birds in the campus from the Rajdhani Reservoir are given entry at a time. Apart from this, those who want to do photography get entry on permission. The main reason behind this is that there should not be any disturbance to these birds due to human activity.
“The water level of the pond is always maintained and small fish are added to the pond at regular intervals, so that the migratory birds do not face shortage of food. Many birds eat fish and insects of the pond, while many birds eat plants growing in water and soft leaves of nearby trees., Rajiv Kumar, DFO, Patna
More than 30 types of birds come here: DFO Rajeev Kumar told that groups of more than 30 types of birds come to this reservoir at different times. This pond starts buzzing especially after monsoon. Siberian birds start coming here from the month of November. In the months of January-February, this reservoir remains buzzing with the melodious sounds of these birds. These birds start returning in the months of March and April but migratory birds from different places always come to this reservoir.
“At present, the sight of flocks of ducks of different species swimming on the water, red herrings flying in the sky and gadwals resting on the banks of the reservoir is fascinating. Their distinctive sounds, like the whistling sound of the whistling duck, make the entire area full of romance., Rajiv Kumar, DFO, Patna
There are also large numbers of local birds: The hustle and bustle of this reservoir is not limited to international guests only. Rajeev Kumar says that there is also a sizeable population of local birds here, which are a permanent part of this ecosystem. Birds like House Crow, Common Myna, Asian Cuckoo, Spotted Dove and Collared Dove are also seen in large numbers.
“The arrival of such a diverse species of birds shows that the ecosystem of the reservoir is in good condition and is capable of meeting the needs of migratory birds. The caretakers of this reservoir caution the people visiting the water that they should not interfere with the birds’ rest and food and should enjoy watching from a distance., Rajiv Kumar, DFO, Patna
The boundaries of nature lie beyond the boundaries of countries: These migratory birds, which have arrived in the capital reservoir of Patna from Russia, China, America and Europe, give a pleasant message that the boundaries of nature are beyond the boundaries of countries. These birds travel thousands of miles without any passport or visa and give us the message of unity and coexistence.
In such a situation, it is the responsibility of every citizen of the state to ensure a safe and clean environment in the capital reservoir to welcome these guests and never disturb the birds here. So that in the coming years also they keep returning here and get thrilled by this amazing and interesting scene of biodiversity.