Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary:
The Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh was designated as a Ramsar site, taking India’s total to 99.
- It is located in Uttar Pradesh.
- It is a typical monsoonal wetland of the Gangetic plains.
- It is a fresh water perennial water body that came into existence after the formation of the Upper Ganges Canal in 1852 which flows adjacent to the lake.
- It acts as a crucial stopover on the Central Asian Flyway.
- The submerged vegetation consists of Hydrilla verticillata, Ceratophyllum demersum, Vallisneria spiralis, Potamogeton crispus and Najas.
- Free-floating vegetation consists of Salvinia and Azolla, Eichhornia crassipes. Rooted floating vegetation includes Nymphoides cristata and Nymphoides indica.
- It is providing a vital habitat for migratory birds such as the Bar-headed Goose, Painted Stork and various ducks during the winter season.
- Ramsar Sites is a wetland recognized under the Ramsar Convention (1971) for its international importance in conserving biodiversity and sustaining ecological balance.
- These wetlands provide critical habitats for migratory birds, endangered species, and unique flora and fauna.
- They help in groundwater recharge, flood control, and climate regulation, while supporting local livelihoods like fishing and agriculture.
India currently has 99 Ramsar Sites spread across 28 states and union territories.
