Sambhar Lake : Influx Of Migratory Birds
Sambhar Lake is witnessing an extraordinary influx of migratory birds this winter — a rise of nearly 40% compared to last year.
- It is the largest saltwater lake located in the districts of Nagaur and Jaipur in
- This saline wetland is elliptical in shape, with a length of 35.5 km and a breadth varying between 3 km and 11 km.
- It covers an area in excess of 200 sq.km., surrounded on all sides by the Aravalli hills.
- The water from two major ephemeral streams, namely Mendha and Runpangarh, along with numerous rivulets and surface runoff feed the lake.
- It was designated as a Ramsar site in the year 1990.
- It is known for the production of brine/salt and also houses one of the largest salt manufacturing units in the country.
- Several migrating birds visit the waterbody during the winter.
- It is the most important wintering area for flamingoes (both Phoniconaias minor and Phoenicopterus roseus) in India outside the Rann of Kachchh.
- Other migratory species like pelicans, common shelduck, redshank, and common sandpiper, black-winged stilt, Kentish plover, and Ringed plover, Ruff, and Sociable lapwing are also found here.
