Nakta duck sighted at Keoladeo National Park as winter bird arrivals begin

A nakta duck has been sighted in the water areas of Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur as the winter season begins. The duck is identifiable by a raised bump above its bill. Its presence has drawn the attention of visitors and birdwatchers. Migratory birds are also beginning to arrive at the park for the winter season, and visitors are observing birds around its lakes and ponds.

Notable Points

• Keoladeo’s role in waterfowl migration: Keoladeo serves as a staging ground for migratory waterfowl arriving in the Indian subcontinent before dispersing to other regions. Waterfowl also gather there before departing for breeding grounds in the western Palearctic.
• Water management at Keoladeo: At Keoladeo, deep tube-well water can be pumped into small depressions to help preserve seeds, spores and other aquatic life, including during severe drought. Seasonal wetting and drying also helps maintain the freshwater-swamp ecology.