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Home , Bishazari Tal, Chitwan National Park, Ghodaghodi Tal, Jagdishpur Reservoir, Langtang National Park, Rara National Park

5 Ramsar Sites

opularly known as the ‘Ramsar Description Convention’, the Convention on The Ghodaghodi Lake area in Western PWetlands of International Importance, was declared a in 2003. It especially as for waterfowl, is an consists of a large and shallow oxbow lake intergovernmental treaty adopted on 2 February system with associated marshes and meadows 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the surrounded by tropical deciduous forest on the southern shore of the Caspian Sea. In December lower slopes of the Siwaliks, the youngest 1987, Nepal became the 46th Contracting Party mountain range of the . There are to the treaty by depositing Koshitappu around 13 associated lakes and ponds, and Reserve as the 384th wetland in the some streams separated by hillocks situated Convention List. The Convention on along the site’s periphery. came into force in Nepal on April 17, 1988. The three sites in Nepal designated as Wetlands of The forest and wetlands serve as a wildlife International Importance on 13 August 2003 are corridor between the lowlands and the Siwalik Beeshazar and Associated Lakes in the buffer Hills. They support critically zone of , the World including the Red-crowned roofed turtle Heritage site Ghodaghodi Lake area in Kailali (Kachuga kachuga), Bengal (Panthera district, and Jagadishpur Reservoir in Kapilvastu tigris), and Three-striped toofed turtle (Kachuga district. These sites are among the 10 wetland dhongka). Vulnerable species include the sites in the highlighted in the 2002 Nepal Smooth-coated otter (Lutra perpiscillata), Biodiversity Strategy, and recommended as common otter (Lutra lutra), Swamp (Cervus meriting legal protection. duvaucelli), Lesser adjutant (Leptotilos javanicus), and Marsh crocodile (Crocodylus palustris). Endangered plant species include the Ramsar site Orchid (Aerides odorata), the religiously Background important and threatened Lotus (Nelumbo Area: 2,563 ha nucifera), and rare wild rice (Hygrohiza aristata). Ramsar Site Number 1314, and WDPA Site code: 901298 The lake is fed by direct precipitation during Location the monsoon season, and by surface flows from Main access is 100m north of the east-west the watershed area, ground water springs, and highway in ward 5 of Darakhnidi VDC, small streams. Water depth varies from 1-4m. Kailali district (Annex 3) Secchi depth transparency and high phosphor Kailali district, encompassing three VDCs: levels indicate that the lake is hypertrophic, Darakhnidi, Ramsikharjhala, and Sandepani nitrogen level eutrophic, and Chlorophyll ‘A’ level low (due to rich growth of macrophytes) as Coordinates oligo to mesotrophic. Dissolved oxygen is low with a minimum of 3 to 5 mg/l. 74 Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book

The Lake is an important religious shrine Threatened plant species include the dedicated to the Ghodaghodi deity. The endangered Orchid (Aerides odorata), the indigenous Tharu community celebrates a religiously important and threatened Lotus traditional festival, ‘Agan Panchami’, in (Nelumbo nucifera), and rare wild rice December with a cleansing dip in this holy lake. (Hygrohiza aristata) The 6,700-strong population within the site, of The Lake has records of 388 vascular plants: which 50% are migrants from adjoining hilly five pteridophytes, 253 dicots, and 130 areas, are dependent on the lake for traditional monocots (Annex 1.9.17) fishing and agriculture. Fauna The factors exerting undue pressure on the The fauna consists of lower risk species on the site’s ecology include highway traffic at the IUCN Red List such as the Ferruginous duck southern edge, construction of new unplanned (Aythya nyroca), Grey-headed fish eagle temples in the vicinity, over grazing, poaching (Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus), and Asiatic rock and hunting, as well as illegal tree felling and python (Python molurus); other rare species smuggling of Sal () and Khair include the lizard (Varanus flavescens) (Acacia catechu) timber, and natural Records reflect 29 fish species in the area, eutrophication accelerated by human religious including the threatened Puntius chola, and and agricultural activities. the locally endemic Asian knifefish (Notopterus notopterus), and cold water fish The Department of Forests is the principal (Oxygaster bacaila) management authority of the area, and the Around 140 partly migrating bird species Kailali District Forest Office manages the area. representing over 16% of the national Local communities and NGOs support the avifauna inhabit the area conservation process by forming themselves into Also home to an estimated 1% of the South and operating user groups. A participatory Asian cotton teal (Nettapus coromandelianus) community-centered management plan has population in Nepal and supports a large been prepared for the conservation of the Lake population of Marsh mugger crocodiles area. Community-based anti-poaching (Crocodylus palustris) operations help reduce poaching in the Lake Bird species symbolic of the area include the area. Grey hornbill (Ocyceros birostris), Eurasian eagle owl (Bubo bubo), Brown fish owl Significance (Ketupa zeylonensis), and Osprey (Pandion The biological aspects of Ghodaghodi Tal haliaetus) Ramsar site cover species and including The area supports numerous globally ecosystem description, conservation, and threatened species (IUCN 2002) including the management. critically endangered Red-crowned roofed turtle (Kachuga kachuga), Flora (Panthera tigris), leopard (Panthera pardus), Ninety-eight percent (98%) of the area is Three-striped and roof turtle (Kachuga dense forest and 2% pastureland dhongka), the vulnerable Smooth-coated Native aquatic plants adaptatable to the otter (Lutra perpiscillata), Common otter unique physiological conditions of the area (Lutra lutra), Lesser adjutant stork (Leptotilos include the Water primrose (Ludwigia javanicus), and Marsh crocodile (Crocodylus adscendens) and Bladderwort (Utricularia palustris) australis) A crucial point in the ecosystem as a The floating vegetation in the Lake provides waterhole for all kinds of wild life an excellent habitat for waterhens and Evidence of (Gavialis gangeticus) jacanas; the surrounding dense forest for reported in the area (BPP 1995) birds of prey including the rare osprey Current checklists include species of 34 (Pandion haliaetus), and kingfisher , 96 birds, nine herpeto, and 23 Biogeographically significant as represen- fish (Annex 2.27) tatives of the Indo Malayan realm are Sal (Shorea robusta) and Myrobalan trees (Terminalia alata) Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 75

Achievements growth provides a secure habitat for water birds. Preparation of a participatory community- Secchi disc and phosphorus content indicate that centered conservation management plan with the water is hypertrophic, and the nitrogen the joint efforts of IUCN and ‘Ghodaghodi concentration eutrophic. Chlorophyll ‘A’ content Kshetra Samrakshan Tatha Bikas Samiti’ of the surface water is low (3-5 mg/l) indicating (Ghodaghodi Area Conservation and oligotrophy due to a rich macrophytes growth. Development Committee) The site provides shelter for an assembly of Selected as a demonstration site by IUCN- Nepal for research and monitoring rare and endangered species of conservation importance, including plants such as the Proposed as a conservation or bird sanctuary and wildlife reserve endangered Serpentina (Rauvolfia serpentina), rare Pondweed (Potamogeton lucens), threatened User groups have been formed through the initiative of local NGOs Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), and the endangered tallest flying bird species, the (Grus Over 16 community-based organisations are active in area antigone). Three wetland clubs have been formed in Authorities in the Department of Irrigation, three local schools around Ghodaghodi Lake Office are responsible for the in 2007: Dasarath Secondary School, management of the irrigation system. The Sitakunda Secondary School, and Rastriya external forest area is managed by the District School; each club consists of 15 committee Forest Office with the help of the local community. members from Grades 5 to 9 Conservation measures include green belt plantations around the reservoir, maintenance of Ramsar the water level by a dike and a sluice, as well as construction of an irrigation canal. site Background Current uses of the reservoir and adjacent Area 225 ha areas include fishing, grazing, fuel wood and Ramsar site number 1315, and WDPA fodder collection, domestic use of the Reservoir Site code: 901299 such as for laundry, and harvesting of wetland Location products. The area is also popular for picnics, 10 km south of east-west highway in Ward swimming, boating, bathing, and other forms of 9 of Jagdishpur VDC, Kapilvastu district recreation and supplies water for irrigation in (Annex 3) 6,200 ha of surrounding cultivated land. The Kapilavastu district encompassing one VDC water body has great potential for commercial (Jagdishpur VDC) stocking and production of fish. Surrounding areas are primarily used for farming. The site has Coordinates been proposed as a designated bird sanctuary. Significance Biological aspects of the Reservoir cover species and habitat, including ecosystem Description conservation and management. Jagadishpur Reservoir was declared a Ramsar site on 13 August 2003, and is also Flora highlighted in the Directory of Asian Wetlands. The vegetation is primarily in a submerged The reservoir was constructed in the early 1970s succession stage, with patches of floating over Jakhira Lake and agricultural land for species and reed swamp formations; marsh irrigation, and is fed by the Banganga River in meadows and extensive mudflats constitute the Churia hills catchment area. It is surrounded the northern part the Lake by cultivated land and a few smaller lakes serving The terrestrial vegetation along the dike is as a buffer zone for bird movement. Reservoir dominated by Sisoo (Dalbergia sisoo) and depth varies between 2 and 7m during the khair (Acacia catechu) summer and winter crop plantation periods, Wetland vegetation consists of Morning glory respectively. Silt and nutrients from the inlet are (Ipomea carnea ssp. fistulosa), and cattail deposited in the reservoir delta; the resulting reed (Typha angustifolia) 76 Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book

The Reservoir’s aquatic vegetation is Nine species of reptiles are presumed to be represented by extensive coverage of floating residents in the area; the Marsh mugger leaf species, mainly lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), (Crocodylus palustris) is nonresident, entering followed by wild rice (Hygrorhiza aristata), the reservoir only during the monsoon and pondweed (Potamogeton nodosus); free The site is visited by a large number of floating species include Water velvet (Azolla wintering and staging waterfowls and imbricata) and Duckweed (Lemna spp.) provides excellent foraging habitat for both Abundant submerged species include the resident and migratory bird species water nymph (Naja minor), hydrilla (Hydrilla Bird species symbolic of the area are the verticillata), and hornwort (Ceratophyllum Falcated duck, Mallard, Tufted duck, and demersum) Red-crested pochard Records of 16 vascular plants in the area: one Current checklists include six , 45 pteridophyte, seven dicots, and eight bird, nine herpeto and 18 fish species (Annex monocots (Annex 1.9.18) 2.28)

Fauna Achievements Twenty-five fish species belonging to 12 Sustainable wetland management strategy for families and seven orders including the wildlife and humans evaluated and approved lowland Terai endemics such as Notopterus by the Ramsar Small Grants Fund for Wetland notopterus and Oxygaster bacaila, Conservation and Wise Use in 2006 threatened species such as the Puntius chola (http://www.ramsar.org/sgf/key_sgf06.htm) as well as common species are recorded, and are prey to waders and waterbirds Records of 45 species of birds from the Beeshazar and Associated Lakes Reservoir and surroundings, including from Ramsar site the smaller lakes, such as Sagarhawa and Background Niglihawa, that serve as a buffer zone for bird Area: 3200 ha movements Ramsar site number 1313, and WDPA The site provides vital resident, wintering, and Site code: 901297 stopover habitats for waders, other water- Location birds, and small passerines; noteworthy 8 km south from Tikauli on the east-west species are Grebes (Podiceps cristatus, highway in Gitanagar VDC (Annex 3) Tachybaptus ruficollis), cormorants encompassing two (Phalacrocorax carbo, Phalacrocorax niger), municipalities, Bharatpur and , herons (Ardea species), and egrets including and two VDCs, Gitanagar and Bachhauli the rare bittern Ixobrychus cinensis, (Ciconia species), ducks (Aythya species), and Coordinates geese, terns and gulls, birds of prey; rails, coot and waterhens, Jacanas, as well as cranes and kingfishers Resident stork species (Anastomus oscitans and Ciconia episcopus) are recommended for Description protection because of their susceptibility to Beeshazar and Associated Lakes, also known endangerment through impacts of human as , was declared a Ramsar site on activities 13 August 2003. It forms an extensive, typical Because of its position surrounded by oxbow lake system of the tropical Inner Terai cultivated land and its moderate size, the site area in Central Nepal within the buffer zone of is not suitable for large mammal the Chitwan National Park, a World Heritage site. conservation; the area does, however have Water is received from direct precipitation during immense potential to support a small the monsoon and through inflow from the population of Smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale Khageri irrigation canal. Lake water is supplied perspicillata,) and other common species through the canal and the stream during the dry such as the (Felis chaus), Golden season. The catchment area of the Lake helps jackal (Canis aureus), and Indian fox (Vulpes control flooding in the Khageri River, and bengalensis) recharges the ground water and streams. Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 77

Situated between the Mahabharat mountain Wetland vegetation of the area includes range to the north and the Siwalik range to the sedge (Cyperus spp.), Common reed south, this forested wetland provides excellent (Phargmites karka), and Morning glory habitat as a waterhole and corridor for (Ipomea carnea ssp. fistulosa) numerous endangered wildlife species that The aquatic vegetation is represented by include the critically endangered White-rumped extensive coverage of floating leafed species, vulture (Gyps bengalensis), Bengal tiger primarily water hyacinth (Eichhornia (Panthera tigris), one-horned crassipes), water chestnut (Trapa (Rhinoceros unicornis), and (Gavialis quadrispinosa), and Evening primrose gangeticus); and the vulnerable Smooth-coated (Ludwigia adscendens) otter (Lutra perpiscillata), (Melaurus Free floating species include the Water velvet ursinus), Marsh crocodile (Crocodylus palustris), (Azolla imbricate,) and duckweed (Lemna Lesser adjutant stork (Leptotilos javanicus), spp.) Ferruginous duck (Aythya nyroca), and Band- Abundant submerged species include the tailed fish eagle (Haileetus leucoryphus). Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum), Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata), and water nymph The lake bed is situated on laterite soil. Its (Najas minor) oligotrophic state is indicated by the low content The area records 37 vascular plants: one of Chlorophyll ‘A’ due to the rich growth of pteridophyte, 26 dicots, and 10 monocots macrophytes; this prevents the penetration of (Annex 1.9.19) sunlight needed for photosynthesis. However, with respect to nutrient content and Sechi depth, Fauna and based on a one-time analysis during the The area records 21 species of mammals, of summer season the Lake is considered to be which four are considered threatened, and eutrophic to hypertrophic. one is protected An important waterhole for wildlife species The surrounding forest area is home to an such as the tiger, rhinoceros (Rhinoceros estimated 100,000 people who farm and fish in unicornis), among others the lake and surrounding areas through a grant Thirteen species of reptiles are assumed to be of annual fishing contracts. A buffer zone in the area, including two endangered species management committee has been formed for Records of 273 bird species of 61 families, of participatory management of the area. Local which 60 are wetland species NGOs, the Nepal Army, and volunteers have Bird species include the Grey heron (Ardea periodically removed invasive weeds such as cinerea), Large cormorant (Phalacrocorax water hyacinth and water chestnut manually from carbo), Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), Stork- the water body. billed kingfisher (Halcyon capensis), Ferruginous duck (Aythya nyroca), Painted Significance Biological aspects cover species and habitat, including ecosystem descri- ption, conservation, and manage-ment.

Flora Land use patterns in the total wetlands site area include 30% open forests, 40% dense forests, 15% grass lands, and 15% pasturelands Sal dominated forests exist in the surrounding areas of the lake; prominent associated species include the Myrobalan (Terminalia alata), Silk cotton (Bombax ceiba), and Bot dhainyaro (Lagerstroemia

parviflora) U R Bhuju Beeshazar Tal, Chitwan 78 Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book

stork (Mycteria leucocephala), Black-necked Coordinates stork (Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus), Indian black vulture (Sarcogyps calvus), Black vulture (Aegypius monachus), Grey-headed fishing eagle (Ichthyophaga ichthyaetus), Black- bellied tern (Sterna acuticauda), and Great Description hornbill (Buceros bicornis) The Koshitappu Wildlife Reserve was Records of 17 fish species in Beeshazar designated as a Ramsar site on 17 December include the threatened Puntius chola, and the 1987. The Reserve is a section of the Sapta Kosi endemic Asian knifefish, and Common water River and floodplain, of extensive mudflats, reed fish (Oxygaster bacaila) beds, and freshwater marshes. It is rectangular The site supports an estimated 20 Marsh and formed by the Koshi barrage near Nepal- crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris), the largest India border on the east-west highway. number of these animals in a single group in Nepal An important staging area for water birds, Tikauli forest serves as a critical corridor and the site supports several species of notable birds refuge for wildlife migrations from the Churia including the Large adjutant stork (Leptoptilos to the Mahabharat foothills dubius), Pallas’s fish eagle (Haliaeetus Current checklists include 26 mammal, 271 leucoryphus), Common golden-eye (Bucephala bird, 18 herpeto and 25 fish species (Annex clangula) and Gull-billed tern (Gelochelidon 2.29) nilotica). Notable mammals such as the (Bubalus arnee), and the Gangetic Achievements dolphin (Platanista gangetica) inhabit the Included in the buffer zone of Chitwan Reserve. Located in a densely populated area, National Park in 1996 the site is subjected to severe livestock grazing, Selected as a priority learning site for the and attempts by local communities to re- Protected Areas Learning Network (PALNet) establish their roots in the reserve. Land use in promoted by DNPWC, IUCN, WWF and other the surrounding areas includes subsistence conservation organisations fishing and rice cultivation. Local conservation organisations have mobilised significant numbers of the labour A buffer zone management committee has force in the area to remove aquatic weeds been formed with user committees and user such as Eichhornia crassipes, Trapa groups from 10,693 households following the quadrispinosa, and Cyperus species in 2004 designation of buffer zone areas in 2004. A and 2005 management plan has been prepared for Highlighted in the current Management Plan Koshitappu Wildlife Reserve, and the buffer zone of Chitwan National Park and Buffer Zone authorisation process is underway. (2006-2010)

Koshitappu Wildlife Reserve Ramsar site Background Area 17,500 ha Ramsar site number 380 WDPA Site code: 14196 Location 2.5 km north from Jamuha on the east-west highway (east of the Sapta Koshi barrage); the headquarters of the Ramsar site is located at at Kusaha of Sunsari district (Annex 3)

Sunsari, Saptari, and Udaypur districts, with R N Suwal 16 VDCs in the buffer zone (DNPWC 2002b) Rat snakes (Elaphe obsoleta) mating, Koshitappu Wildlife Reserve Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 79

Other priority wetland sites Significance Flora Wetland sites account for only 5% of Nepal’s Lake vegetation is rich in plant species. The total surface area, but contain biodiversity of Lake is situated in the Churia/Siwalik mountain immense global significance. In 1998, IUCN Nepal range surrounded by dense Sal forests covered prepared a list of 163 wetlands of Nepal based on by heavy growth of lianas, and dense surveys conducted between 1993 and 1996 as well undergrowth beneath the heavy forest canopy. as upon secondary sources (Table 28). Lake vegetation includes duck weeds and pond weeds Lemna minor, Wolffia globosa, and Spirodela polyrhiza of the free floating community; aquatic grasses and pond weeds, Vallisneria natans, Zannichellia palustris, Hydrilla verticillata, Potamogeton spp. and Ottelia alismoides of the submergent community; Nymphaea stellata and Potamogeton spp. of the rooted floating community; Typha angustifolia and Acorus calamus of the emergent community and Colocasia falax, Ranunculus species, Crinum amoenum of the surrounding marsh community. A few Salix tetrasperma trees are found on the Terai wetlands Lake’s northern marshy shore. Fauna The BPP in 1995 recorded that 36 of the 51 The surrounding forests are renown for their wetlands in the Terai are biologically significant, rich mammalian fauna, with 21 species recorded and that 10 specific sites merit legal protection. to date, including threatened species such as the The 2002 Nepal Biodiversity Strategy also (Cuon alpinus), a species of wild dogs); highlighted the 10 sites meriting legal protection. sloth bear (Ursus ursinus), the Asiatic black bear Of the 10 priority wetland sites, three were (Ursus thibetanus), (Vulpes designated as Ramsar sites in 2003. The benghalensis), and Himalayan ghoral remaining seven sites are Bedkot Tal, Padereni (Naemorhedus sumatranensis). Mammals Tal, Deukhuria Tal, Rampur Tal, Nakhrodi Tal, especially dependent on wetlands are the wild Badhaiya Tal and Gaundahawa Tal. Details of ungulates: Axis deer (Axis axis), the Indian these sites follow. sambar (Cervus unicolor), Barking deer (Muntias muntjak), and predators including the tiger. The Lake is of minimal importance as a resident, Bedkot Tal staging, or wintering area for waterfowl. Of the Area 5 ha recorded species, the goose (Tachybaptus Location ruficollus) and Black stork (Ciconia nigra) are Chhela Bagon Ward 5 of Daiji VDC, noteworthy. The Lake is rich in herpetofauna, and 23 km north of Mahendranagar, is also thought to support a population of marsh Kanchanpur crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris); two dead specimens have been collected in the past. Three Coordinates species of fresh-water turtle have also been recorded.

Background Padereni Tal Bedkot Tal is a small (approximately 10m Area 15 ha deep) freshwater lake. Before the construction of Location the East-West Highway, Bedkot was an important Bani, Ward 2 of Krishnapur VDC, exit point to India for Nepali hill people. It is a Kanchanpur district, 11 km west of Atariya scenic lake of exceptional genetic and ecological diversity and is situated on a hilltop in the middle of a dense Sal forest. 80 Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book

Coordinates Coordinates

Background Background Padereni Tal is a large, shallow eutrophic ox- Deukhuria Tal is a large, 1.5m shallow, bow lake (1-3m deep) formed by the Donda eutrophic rainfed lake set in a scenic River. It is surrounded with Syzigium forests and environment, a particularly good example of an supports a small number of resident and oxbow ecosystem supporting an appreciable migratory waterfowl. assemblage of the rare Knob-billed duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos), and vulnerable and Significance endangered wildlife species. Flora The Lake’s vegetation is not rich in species Significance diversity, but is densely covered with free floating Flora Azolla imbricata and Pistia stratioites, and Lake vegetation is not particularly rich in plant submerged plants Hydrilla verticillata and species, and is surrounded by degraded Sal Nvmphoides indica. Emergent plants are rich forests associated with Mallotus philippensis, with marsh species such as Schoenoplectus spp, Terminalia alata, and T. bellirica on its southern Cyperus diffusus, Typha angustifolia, side, and moist mixed Syzigium forest (Syzigium Oedogonium cardiacum and Spirogyra affinis. cumini, S.jambos, Adina cordifola) on its eastern The marsh community is represented by patches side. The Lake has some free floating plant of Narrow leaf cattail (Typha angustifolia) and species (Eichornia crassipes and Azolla imbricata), water vines, and knot-weed (Polygonum) species. and submerged species like Ceratophyllum The Lake is set in an area of dense Sal and moist demursum, Chara fragilis, and Hydrilla verticillata Syzigium forest with thick lianas and dense at its margins. Emergent and marsh communities undergrowth. Diversity is maintained by a large are represented by a few species of native plants reed bed covered island (Phragmites karka), tall that thrive in wetlands including the grasses (Saccharum spontaneum), and Salix Schoenoplectus mucronatus (bog bulrush) and tetrasperma trees. Ranunculus (Buttercups, spear worts). The surrounding forest floor and meadows comprise Fauna wetland grasses such as Chrysopogon aciculatus, The Lake is a wintering area for sizeable Cynodon dactylon, and Vetiveria zizanoides. numbers of various species of waterfowl and Some of the areas are cultivated. provides a staging area for many species during migration. Resident bird species include egrets Fauna Bubulcus ibis, Egretta alba, Pseudibis papillosa, The Lake is a wintering area for sizeable Ardea purpurea, Nettapus coromandelianus, and numbers of numerous species of waterfowl, and Francolinus pondicerianus. Passage migrants and provides a regular staging area for many species winter visitors include the Anas penelope, A. during migration. Resident species include the crecca and Vanellus vanellus. Regular visitors knob-billed duck (Sarkidiornis melanotos), Indian include the Leptoptilus javanicus and Cicionia pond heron (Ardeola grayii), Little egret (Egretta episcopus. The wetland has a sizeable 20 ha garzetta), Bronze-winged Jacana (Metopidius area of which provides excellent indicus) and pheasant-tailed Tacana habitat for Houbaropsis bengalensis, Sypheotidus (Hydrophasianus chirugus). Passage migrants indica and other grassland birds. The Lake is and winter visitors include the Sea Kayak (Anas known to support a population of marsh acuta) and a number of shorebirds. Seven crocodiles (status unknown), Monitor lizards, and species of fish have been recorded. pythons.

Deukhuria Tal Rampur Tal Area 22 ha Area 22 ha Location Location Ward 7 of Dhangadi municipality area in 7 km. south of East-West Highway in Ward 9 Kailali district of Urma VDC, Kailali District. Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 81

Coordinates Background Nakhrodi Tal is a large, 10m deep, eutrophic oxbow lake with an island in the middle. The Lake is surrounded by dense Sal forests, is fed by Background precipitation, a few springs, and inflow from Rampur Tal is a 0-3m shallow, eutrophic ox- Kauwa Khola canal. Average outflow discharge th bow lake. The water level decreases significantly from the lake was estimated to be 50 l/s (3 in the Lake during March and April. The site is a February 1995). The lake is located some 600 medium-sized complex of oxbow lakes set in a metres north-east of Ghodaghodi Tal and is scenic environment surrounded by dense Sal within the Ghodaghodi lake system cluster. forests along most of the lake shoreline. Significance Significance Flora Flora An oxbow lake surrounded by dry Sal forests Lake vegetation is medium in species with spiny shrubs (Gardenia turgida, G. diversity, and is set in an area of dense Sal campanulata, Zizyphus rugosa) representing the forests. Associated with Sal are tree species such lower canopy level, lake vegetation is rich and as the Kamala tree (Mallotus philippensis), dominated by Azolla imbricata and Pistia ‘Kadamba’ in Hindi (Adina cordifolia), Beleric stratioites as the Lake’s free floating plant (Terminalia bellirica), ‘Jamun’ (Syzigium cumini), community; Potamogeton spp. and Hydrilla and Terminalia alata (common timber). The Lake verticillata as submergent plant community; is dominated by the rooted floating lotus varieties Potamogeton nodosus, Nymphaea stellata and such as Nelumbo nucifera, Nymphaea stellata, Nymphoides indica as rooted floating Ludwigia adscendens; and the free floating Trapa community; and Oryza rufipogon, Phragmites quadrispinosa, Pistia stratioites, Azolla imbricate, karka, Corchorus olitorius, and Aechmanthera and Spirodela polyrhiza. It is also rich in gossypina as the marsh community. Patches of submerged plants such as the Hydrilla Salix tetrasperma thickets are found on the verticillata, Ceratophyllum demursum and Chara northern banks of the Lake. fragilis. The emergent and marsh communities are represented by the Schoenoplectus Fauna mucronatus, Ranauculus species and Isachne The wetland and surrounding forests are milliacea species. The surrounding vegetation is renowned for their rich mammalian fauna. rich in reed and other grass species. Twenty-one species of mammals have been recorded in the Lake, including threatened Fauna species such as the dhole (Cuon alpinus), sloth The Lake is a wintering and staging area for bear (Ursus ursinus), otter (Lutragale perspicillata, a number of species of waterfowl. Resident Aonyx cinera), and Asiatic elephant (Elephas species include the Great white egret (Egretta maximus). Mammals present in the river alba), E. intermedia, Bronze winged Jacana, and especially dependent on the wetland include pheasant-tailed Tacana. Passage migrants and various wild ungulates and their predators, such winter visitors include Falco severus. Seven as the tiger. The Lake is a wintering area for species of fish have been recorded in the area. sizeable numbers of various species of waterfowl and provides a staging area for many species during migration. Resident bird species include Nakhrodi Tal the Indian pond heron (Ardeola grayii), Great white egret, and heron (Ardea purpurea). Area 70 ha Passage migrants and winter visitors include Location swans, ducks, ducks teal (Anas crecca). 5 km north of the east-west highway, in Ward 8 of Sandepani VDC, Kailali district. The Lake is rich in herpetofauna, with 12 recorded species. Incidence of crocodiles Coordinates (Crocodylus palustris and Gavialis gangeticus) is presumed but has not been confirmed. Three species of fresh-water turtles have been recorded, as well as the endangered Python 82 Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book

molurus and monitor lizard. There is evidence of oscitans). Passage migrants and winter visitors 20 species of fish including the riverine species, include ducks, geese, swans (Tadorna Glossogobius giurus. ferruginea), the Eurasian widgeon (Anas Penelope), Gadwall (A. strepera), a common North American duck; pintail duck (A. acuta), Badhaiya Tal Northern shoveler duck (A. clypeata), Area 105 ha Temminck’s Stint (Calidris temminckii), a Location Eurasian-African migratory bird; the Great snipe Wards 1 and 3 of Soraka VDC of Bardia (Gallinago gallinago), pintail snipe (G. stenura), district Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa), the Common redshank (Tringa tetanus), marsh Coordinates sandpiper (T.stagnatilis) and wood sandpiper (T.glareola). Regular visitors are the Painted stork (Mycteria leucocephala), Wooly-necked stork (Ciconia episcopus), Common spoon bill (Platalea leucorodia), Osprey (Pandion Background haliaetus), and Sarus crane (Grus antigone). The Badhaiya Tal is a shallow, eutrophic rainfed Red-necked falcon (Falco chicquera) has been lake that reaches maximum depths of 4m. The sighted and thought to breed in the area. The site Lake is surrounded by rice fields on all sides. It is rich in herpetofauna and fish. Eight species of is a large marshy natural depression supporting reptile have been reported by the local a large number of resident and wintering community, including the protected Monitor populations of several species of waterfowl. lizard. Seven species of fish have also been Significance recorded in the Lake. Flora Conservation measures required Lake vegetation is abundant in diverse A concrete dam around the Lake is needed to rooted floating plants such as the lotus regulate the outflow from the seven off-takes that (Nelumbo), algae and yellow-green algae irrigate surrounding agricultural land. This (Spirogyra, and Vaucheria), water primroses embankment should be raised around the Lake (Ludwigia), water fern (Marsilea), water vine to maintain adequate water levels in order to (Ipomea), and water lily (Nymphaea), and marsh retain water for fisheries, irrigation, and for the vegetation of weeds (Persicaris, Oryza, enhancement of the habitat for water birds. Ranunculus, and Ipomoea), but have limited free Afforestation along some banks may reduce the floating plants such as the Pistia stratiotes and impact of intrusion into this habitat. Azolla imbricata; and the submerged Chara fragilis and emergent Colocasia falax. Adjacent terrestrial vegetation consisting of various Gaindahawa Tal meadow species such as the Lippia nodiflora (mud grass), Rumex nepalensis (broad-leafed Area 50 ha dock), and occasional clumps of tall grasses Location (Vetiveria zizanoides, Saccharum spontanen, and Ward 1 of Bishnupura VDC of Themeda arundinacea). Rupandehi district

Fauna Coordinates The Lake supports a small population of otters and a number of wild ungulates including the Spotted deer, and Indian Sambar or (Cervus unicolor) that use the lake as a Background waterhole. A large variety of waterfowl visit the Gaindahawa Tal is a shallow (1-4m deep) lake, which offers an excellent foraging habitat rain fed ox-bow lake. The Lake’s sources of water for both resident and migratory species. Resident are an artesian well and surface discharge from species include the Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), the forest. During the rainy season, the Lake’s Great white egret, rare birds E. intermedia, water level is regulated through an irrigation E.garzetta, and the Asian bill stork (Anastomus intake structure. Dense forest to the west and Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 83

north, private land to the east, and forest areas in particular, to this site. The and settlements to the south surround the Lake. Development Trust has expressed interest in developing the site for conservation and In 1998/99 IUCN supported the recreation. A study is recommended to assess development of a conservation plan for related potential for tourism. Gaindahawa Lake. Significance High-Altitude Wetlands Flora A number of free floating weed, grass and In 2005, DNPWC and WWF Nepal Program plant species (Eichornia crassipes, Azolla prepared a fact sheet of eight wetland sites imbricata, Pistia stratioites and Spirodela including four Ramsar sites. The other four polyrhiza), with submergent species priority sites are from the high altitude region, (Ceratophyllum demursum, Alisma plantago - and located within protected areas. They are the aquatica, Ottelia alismoides), rooted floating following. species (Nymphaea, Nelumbo, Marsilea, Ipomoea and Ludwigia), and emergent species (Ipomoea, Carex, Schoenoplectus) comprise the Lake vegetation. The marsh and terrestrial Area 1061 ha vegetation towards the embankment is Location dominated by Mother herbs Vetiveria zizanoides, Trema sp, Xanthium strumarium, Ipomoea carnea, Coordinates Scoparia dulcis, and Alternanthera sessilis.

Fauna The wetland is an important waterhole for the remnant population of Blue bulls (Boselaphus tragocamelus). The ox-bow lake, marshes, adjacent rice fields, and forests support small Background resident and wintering populations of several Rara Lake is the largest fresh water lake in species of waterfowl including several egret, Nepal (5.1 km in length, 2.7 km wide, 167m in heron (Nettapus coromandelianus, Sarus crane depth, 140 km in shoreline) and is a unique and (Grus antigone) and shorebird species. rare example of natural wetlands in the high Underwood (1989, p.516) observed 57 Mycteria Himalayan biogeographic region. The Lake is leucephala species (Little blue heron), 20 Platalea rich in nutrient content and transports 1.039km3 leucorodia (the Common spoonbill) and 20 of water. Sarkidiornis melanotos (Knob-billed duck) in January 1980. The Lake is rich in herpetofauna The water has coliforms, which indicates it and fish. Incidence of 10 species of reptile cannot be used as drinking water without including the endangered Monitor lizard is treatment. Suspended solids are higher in the presumed. Surveillance of the Indian-eyed turtle outlet area (263 mg/l) compared to the lake (Morenia petersi) by the BPP team here in body (<1.0 mg/l), but still substantially lower January 1995 is the first recorded sighting in than the WHO benchmark of 1000 mg/l. Nepal. The Thakur Baba Temple is located 500m Conservation measures required upwards near the Lake’s south-east corner and is The local community welcomes the implemen- linked to a local myth about the Gods shooting tation of management schemes to improve the an arrow to discharge the Lake’s water to reduce Lake’s ecosystem. Local people claim that the potential damage by overflooding. The local hunting of birds is still prevalent. Forest clearance community depends minimally on the lake for is causing erosion and siltation. Enhancement of daily livelihood. The tourism base of the social the lake area and its environment by improving economy, however, is dependent on the the regeneration of the forest and limiting the wetlands. Rara has not received more than 200 depletion of aquatic vegetation would attract tourists in any given year and visitors have been birdwatchers of the Sarus crane (Grus antigone) on the decline since 1995. 84 Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book

Major threats to the wetland include: Of the 235 bird species recorded in the Lake, Overgrazing and erosion 49 species are wetland birds; most are Unsustainable harvesting of resources migratory including NTFPs Of them, the Ruddy shelduck (Tadorna Pollution due to sedimentation from adjacent ferruginea) is said to breed in Rara Lake hills, discharge of domestic sewage and solid Coots (Fulica atra) are plentiful in the Lake, waste, and uncontrolled wallowing of and several stay throughout the year domestic cattle Resident wetland birds such as the Eurasian woodcock (Scolopax rusticola), Brown dipper Rara Lake is situated within the Rara (Cinclus pallasii), Little grebe (Tachybaptus National Park which is managed by the ruficollis) and Wood snipe (Gallinago Department of National Parks and Wildlife nemoricola) have been recorded Conservation. The Lake’s buffer zone was The great-crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) declared in 2006. The Nepal Army has been and Black-necked grebe (Podiceps nigricollis) deployed for conservation and protection are winter visitors presumed to be residing activities within the Park. The area fulfills the throughout the year round in the Lake criteria and vision of Ramsar 2006-2008. The common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis alcedinidae), crested kingfisher (Megaceryle lugubris), Black-crowned night heron Significance (Nycticorax nycticorax), and Great cormorant Flora (Phalacrocorax carbo) are summer visitors Lake margin is surrounded by reeds presumed to breed in the Lake (Phragmites), bushes (Juncus), and sedges It is the habitat and resting site of winter visitor (Fimbristylis) water birds such as the Gadwall (Anis Phytoplanktonic algae and aquatic plants are strepera), Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), present in the Lake Northern shoveler (Anas clypeata.), common Leathery leaves of Polygonum form oily teal (Anas crecca), Tufted duck, common floating layers, and sessile plants Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula), common (Myriophyllum) cover the Lake’s shallow areas merganser (a large-sized duck), common Potential endemic species in the catchments coot (Fulica atra), and Solitory snipe are the Meconopsis regia (yellow and orange (Gallinago solitaria solitaria) Himalayan poppy), Primula poluninii Fifty Tufted ducks, 200 common coots, 85 (terrestrial,) and Cirsium flavisquamatum great crested grebes, and 15 Black-necked (aquatic) grebes (Scott 1989), 232 representatives of Based on availability and field assessment, five species of wetland birds were recorded in the following Himalayan herbs, Dactylorhiza the Asian waterfowl census 1994 hatagirea, Nardostachys grandiflora, and The globally threatened cheer pheasant Neopicrorhiza scrophulariflora were found to (Catreus wallichii) is found in the catchment be the most threatened species in the area area (Salleri, Lamichur, Bamichur and Rara) in the southern slope of mixed grassland, Fauna shrubs, and scattered trees Zooplankton is relatively high in Rara Lake Other globally threatened birds such as the (1.62x105 ind/m3), which has the potential to Wood snipe (Gallinago nemoricola) is thought support a moderate fish population to be resident in the Lake with status Rare (5% Some groups of zooplankton recorded are chance-Giri 2005) the Chironomid larvae, aquatic Three endemic species of snow trout (Diaptomidae), and mollusks; the Lake has a (Schizothorax macropthalamus, S. nepalensis, rich invertebrate aquatic fauna, predaceous S. raraensis) are reported in the Lake water beetle (Dytiscid), mayfly The endemic frog Paa rarica is also found in (Ephemeroptera) and caddis fly larvae. abundance here; the Smooth otter (Lutra Watershrimp (Gammarus sp.), Lumbricolid perspicillata) is the most represented worms, snail (Limnea and Planoribs), and mammal in the Lake ram’s horn (Planorbis) are abundant and Other endangered mammals in the serve as food for the snow trout and catchment area are the Musk deer, Red migratory wildfowl panda, and Himalayan black bear; Snow Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 85

leopards sometimes pass through the upper Nepal or the Himalayan region and have no part of the catchment area through Chuche- equivalent English common names mara peak Fauna Wetland birds found in the Lake include the Phoksundo Wetland Series Red-crested pochard (Rhodonessa rufina), Area 494 ha and Ruddy shelduck (Tadorna ferruginea) Location Other wetland birds recorded downstream Shey Phoksundo National Park are the Common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), Common coot (Fulica atra), Coordinates Eurasian wigeon (Anas Penelope), and Bar- headed goose (Anser indicus) Other birds dependent on the Lake’s water include the Brown dipper (Cinclus pallasii), White-throated dipper (Cinclus cinclus), and White-throated redstart (Phoenicurus Background schisticeps) The Phoksundo Wetland Series is a y-shaped The catchment is the winter habitat of the alpine fresh water oligotrophic lake, 5.15 km in and musk deer length and 800m in breadth. The water volume is 409 million m3, and discharge is 3.715 m3/sec. The Lake drains into Phoksundo River in Gosainkunda Wetland Series the south, serving as a freshwater source for the Area 13.80 ha people in the downstream settlements. Sources Location include several streams including the Sagar, National Park Phoksundo, Chisa, Baulaha, Dekhutaichu, Jagatilumba, and Chollapu. Coordinates

There are more than 20 ‘Chortens’ (stupas) in the southern belt, and one gomba in the eastern side of the Lake where annual prayers and worship are carried out. Traditional Tibetan Background culture prevails in upper Dolpo; Buddhism and Gosainkunda, with its direct reference to an ancient Tibetan religion called Bon-Po are saints and wetlands, is an alpine freshwater prevalent in lower Dolpo, including Ringmo oligotrophic lake series with alpine meadows, (Tsho) village. bogs, lakes/ponds, streams, and wet steep slopes creating a unique and representative User committees and groups have been wetland of high religious significance in the high formed under the buffer zone program. Amchi Himalayan Paleoartic biogeographical region. It groups have been formed to regulate (Tibetan is one of the world’s highest freshwater lake healing) farming, conservation and sustainable systems, is an important source of water for the use of NTFPs. Local people manage camping Trisuli River that generates 20MW electricity (from sites and home-stay tourism. two power houses at Trishuli and Devighat). The water volume is 1.472 million m3, and discharge Significance at outlet is 60 l/s; the inlet discharge is 35 l/s. Flora About 155 species of flowering plants are Hindu mythology attributes as found in the catchment the abode of Hindu deities Lord Shiva and Threatened species per the IUCN category Goddess Gauri. Hindu scriptures, the Bhagawat are the Neopicrorhiza scrophulariifolia (VU), and Bishnu Puran, and Hindu epics, Ramayan Dactylorhiza hatagirea Dioscorea deltoidea and Mahabharat, refer to ‘Samundra Manthan’ (CT), Aconitum spicatum (VU), Nardostachys (marine exploration) which is directly related to grandiflora (VU), Podophyllum hexandrum the origin of Gosaikunda. Its holy waters are (VU) and Megacarpea polyandra (VU); most considered of particular significance during of the species are endemic and local only to Gangadashahara and ‘Janai Purnima’ (sacred 86 Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book

thread festival) when thousands of pilgrims from The wetland birds recorded in Gosainkunda Nepal and India visdit the Lake. include the Brahminy duck (Tadorna ferruginea), and common teal (Anas crecca) The Gosainkunda wetland series falls within Potential wetland birds listed in the area are and is managed by the the Bar-headed goose (Anser indicus), Department of National Parks and Wildlife Brahminy duck, Common teal (Anas crecca), Conservation, Government of Nepal. The Park Tufted duck (Aythya fuligula), Common management has delineated the Gosaikunda merganser (Mergus merganser), Northern area as a religious site. Animal slaughter, pintail (Anas acuta), and Brown dipper sacrifice, and even grazing in the upper (Cinclus pallasii) catchment is prohibited. The Gosaikunda Area Other birds dependent on water in the Management Committee, a registered NGO, catchment area include the Brown dipper oversees overall development and management (Cinclus pallasii), White-capped water redstart during festivals, through which sub-committees (Chaimarrornis leucocephalus), and together with lodge owners are responsible for Plumbeous water redstart (Rhyacornis tourism management. The ‘gothalo’ (herders) fuliginosus); committees are responsible for management of The lower section of the catchment is the the lower catchment area. winter habitat of the and musk deer. Significance Flora About 100 species of flowering plants have Kyangjing Wetland Series been recorded from the Gosainkunda Area 47,600 ha catchment area Location Also hosts endemic species of plants such as Langtang National Park the Meconopsis dhwojii, M.taylorii, Heracleum lallii, Primula aureata, P. sharmae, Coordinates Pedicularis pseudoregeliana, and Rhododendron cowanianum; most of these species are local to Nepal and have no English common name equivalents as yet Other threatened species, mostly local to Background Nepal or the Himalayan region, according to The Kyangjing wetland is an alpine fresh IUCN category are the Aconitum spicatum water river and is oligotrophic in nutrient content Vulnerable; Heracleum lallii, Endangered; in its upper part. The Langsisa and Langtang Jurinea dolomiaea, Near Threatened; glaciers are the main sources of water; discharge Meconopsis dhwojii, Near Threatened; at outlet is 20m3/second. The clean, unpolluted Nardostachys grandiflora, Vulnerable; and regular supply of water from the Kyangjing Neopicrorhiza scrophulariifolia, Vulnerable; Valley has a high significance for the local Rheum australe, Vulnerable; Rheum communities of Langtang and Syafru VDCs. moorcroftianum, Near Threatened; and Swertia multicaulis, Data Deficit. The cultural and religious values of wetlands Gosainkunda is one of the key sites for the are experienced during the celebration of collection of type specimens of plants for ‘Lhoshar’ as well as ‘Janai Purnima’ festivals. The botanical purposes gomba at Kyangjing is among the sites of Phytoplankton 1,548 units/ml. (6 m. depth) religious significance for the Lama and Sherpa with higher Merismopedia sp. followed by communities of Langtang VDC. According to Chlorobotrys sp., Ankistrodsmus sp., legend, the Langsisa is a symbol of Mila Repa Dinobryon sp., Glenodium sp., Aphanotheca (Guru Padma Sambhava) who had stayed there sp., and Planktosphaeria sp. in the form of a bull. Local people worship the bull shaped stone found in the area. People Fauna depend on the wetlands for drinking water, Zooplankton were found 6.4x106 ind./m3 domestic use, grazing, agriculture and other (20m depth) - Daphnia sp. 52%, Cyclops sp. livelihood purposes. Tourism is also dependent 35%, and Napuliar larvae of Cyclops 11% on the wetlands. Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 87

Major threats to the wetland include: Other birds recorded in the catchment areas Excessive use of timber, fuel wood and non- are finches, pigeon, monal (Lophophorus timber forest products (NTFPs); impejanus), thrush and pipit as well as Physical infrastructure development such as Himalayan snowcock, Tibetan partridge, and hotels, and human induced pollution resulting the common quail (Cortunix cortunix) from tourism; Mammals found in the catchment include Poaching; and Pika (Ochotona royle), Yellow-throated martin Overgrazing. (Martes fluvigula), Musk deer, and Red panda The catchment area is one of the four prime Langtang National Park under the habitats for the Red panda in Langtang DNPWC/MFSC is the legal authority of the area National Park (Karki and Zendrovski 2001) as governed by the National Parks and Wildlife The endangered Snow leopard as been Conservation Act 1973, and the Himalayan recorded in the catchment (Chalise and Kyes National Parks Regulations 1980. The upper 2005), along with the Himalayan tahr segment of the eastern part of the wetland was (Hemitragus jemlahicus). identified as a Musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster) habitat area; the lower segment as a Larix (Himalaica) conservation area. Regulations on Panch Pokhari Wetlands the use of timber and firewood have been Area 4.01 ha adopted to control the use of natural resources Location by the influx of tourists and associated support Langtang National Park members (almost 13,000 in 2002), in addition to the residents of the 84 local households. The Coordinates area is jointly monitored by local communities, park staff and the Nepal Army. The area qualifies in the high altitude wetlands category for its biogeographic criteria as listed by Ramsar Vision 2006-2008. Background The ‘Panch Pokhari’ (Five Lakes) wetlands are Significance a permanent alpine fresh water oligotropic lake Flora in a small valley surrounded by ridges. They form Most of the lakes have no aquatic vegetation an important source of water of the Indrawati except for phytoplankton and some algae, but River, which provides water for the production of ponds near Langtang village support a wide electricity at a micro-hydro plant in Tipni Village variety of emergent plants of . This area is important There are some Salix scrubs growing on the for its conservation values related to biodiversity riverside in the Langtang ‘Khola’ (river) valley and tourism. The Park’s vegetation is composed of alpine The outlet discharge from Panch Pokhari to pasture meadows and dwarf rhododendron 3 scrubs associated with a number of medicinal Indrawati River is 0.25 m /second. Hydrological and aromatic plants function and values of the wetlands are high for Endemic and threatened species are the groundwater recharge, flood control, and sediment Meconopsis dhwojii, Zanthoxylum nepalense, trapping. It also provides water for wildlife and Larix potanini and Carum carvi. The livestock grazing in the catchment area. Cordyceps sinensis (Yarcha gumba) is The cultural and religious use of the area is government protected mainly reflected during the Janai Purnima festival Seventy-eight floral species have been in August, when approximately 10,000 pilgrims recorded from the catchment visit this otherwise deserted site. The temple at Panch Pokhari is revered by all communities and Fauna groups. Nomadic groups also depend on the Invertebrates are more numerous in the small wetlands for drinking water and grazing. ponds near Langtang village and Kyangjing Of the 345 bird species recorded in Langtang Major threats to the wetland include: National Park (Karki and Thapa 2001), seven Over-exploitation of timber, fuel wood and are wetland birds including wagtails and dippers non timber forest products (NTFPs); 88 Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book

Poaching of endangered species; (Ibidorhyncha struthersii), Yellow-billed Water pollution and pollution caused by Chough (Pyrrhocorax graculus), Tibetan unmanaged waste; snowcock (Tetraogallus tibetanus), Brandt’s Overgrazing leading to changes in floral and Mountain Finch (Leucosticte brandti), faunal composition, and disrupting the amongst others natural succession process. The area is home to endangered species such as the Musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster), The Langtang National Park under the Snow leopard (Uncia uncia), and Red panda DNPWC/MFSC is the legal authority of the area (Ailurus fulgens) as governed by the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973, and the 1980 Himalayan National Parks Regulations. Use of Gokyo Wetland Series NTFPs is permitted for domestic and traditional Area 42.69ha uses, but banned for commerce. The Park Location authority is responsible for monitoring the conservation and management of the catchment Coordinates area. The area fulfills the Ramsar 2006 criteria for inclusion in the list of high altitude wetlands. Significance Background Flora Gokyo is an oligotropic lake series in the Most of the lakes here have no aquatic Khumbu region. Partially fed by Ngozumpa vegetation except for phytoplankton and glacier, it lies at the head of the Dudh Koshi River some algae which descends from the world’s 7th highest About 35 plants were recorded in the Panch mountain peak, Cho Oyo, creating a unique and Pokhari area, with four endemic species representative wetland in the world’s highest Catchment vegetation is represented by an freshwater lake system. There are six main lakes alpine pasture meadow and Dwarf in the Gokyo series, of which Thonak Lake rhododendron scrub (4834m) is the largest, followed by Gokyo. Dudh The vegetation is associated with a number of Koshi is a sub-basin of the Koshi River in Nepal, medicinal and aromatic plants; some which feeds the Ganges River basin, endemic and threatened species such as the safeguarding the livelihood of millions of people Meconopsis dhowji, Berberis mucrifolia downstream. (barberry), Carum carvi (caraway seeds, a Himalayan spice), Corydalis megacalyx Gokyo Lake is a sacred site for both Hindus (Himalayan garden plants), and and Buddhists. During Janai Purnima, over 500 Cremanthodium nepalense, Dactylorhiza Hindus take a dip in the holy waters of the Lake. hatagirea (a perennial Himalayan herb with The site is worshipped as the residing place of erect leafy stem) have been recorded in the ‘Nag Devata’ (Snake God); a temple of the lakes Hindu deities, Lords Vishnu and Shiva, is situated Of these species, Dactylorhiza hatagirea is a at the western corner of the lake. The belief that government-protected species birds and wildlife in the area should not be harmed has traditionally protected fauna. Fauna Invertebrates are more numerous in the small Gokyo is among the most popular tourist ponds near Panch Pokhari destinations leading towards the Sagarmatha Of the 345 bird species recorded in Langtang base camp and other areas. Over 7,000 visitors National Park (Karki and Thapa 2001), seven on average visit Gokyo every year. are wetland-dependent Gokyo wetland series falls within the This site is a good habitat for migratory and Sagarmatha National Park area, and is residential birds and other wildlife species as managed by DNPWC. A buffer zone it is among the less disturbed remote areas; management committee and user committees the main species include the White-winged and groups have been formed under the buffer Redstart (Phoenicurus erythrogaster), Ibisbill Nepal Biodiversity Resource Book 89

zone programme. Local lodge owners and Lake in the hope of finding a good husband. trekking agencies focus on the site for ecotourism Local folklore holds that animal slaughter within activities. the vicinity of the lake angers the deity of the Lake. Hunting is therefore traditionally forbidden Significance in the area, and hunting musk deer in particular Flora is believed to result in loss of social status and Over 80 species of flowering plants are property. The Lake is also a source of freshwater recorded from the Gokyo catchment for cattle herders and communities downstream. The catchment also hosts four endemic species: the Kobresia fissiglumi K. The Lake falls within the Kangchenjunga gandakienensis, Pedicularis poluninii, and P. Conservation Area (KCA). The KCA Management pseudoregelina, along with rare and Council and its associated institutions have been endangered plants, Neopicrorhiza scrophu- empowered to manage their conservation area. lariifolia, Swertia muticaulis, Saussurea The KCA Management Council has also applied gossipiphora, and Meconopsis horridula; to the Government through the Ministry of Forest most of these species are also local to Nepal and Soil Conservation for community and the Himalayan region and have no management of KCA. Currently, the Manage- English equivalent common names ment Council together with user groups, mothers’ groups, and sub-committees including Fauna the Snow Leopard Conservation Committee, are Wetland birds found in Gokyo include the actively managing the conservation area. Brahminy (Tadorna ferruginea), Eurasian wigeon (Anas Penelope), Northern pintail Significance (Anas acuta), common pochard (Aythya Flora ferina), common coot (Fulica atra), Wood About 32 species of flowering plants have snipe (Gallinago nemoricola), Eurasian been recorded from the Singjema catchment, woodcock (Scolopax rusticola), and Great including three endemic species of rare, crested-grebe (Podiceps cristatus) endangered and vulnerable plants; potential The area is also a breeding site of at least six endemic plants found in the area include the pairs of Brahminy ducks; the lower catchment Aconitum staintonii Lauener, Klotz, is the winter habitat of the musk deer (Cotoneaster staintonii), and Kitam (Cremanthodium nepalense) Other threatened species according to the Singjema Wetland Series IUCN category are Nardostachys grandiflora Area 25.23 ha (Vulnerable), Neopicrorhiza scrophulariifolia Location Kangchenjunga Conservation Area (Vulnerable), Rheum australe or Himalayan rhubarb (Vulnerable), and Swertia multicaulis Coordinates (Data Deficit); most of the plants are local to Nepal and the Himalayan region and many have no equivalent English common names yet Background Singjema Lake, within which believers claim Fauna to see a reflection of their own future and fortune, The Brahminy duck and common Pochard is an alpine fresh water, oligotrophic lake 835m (Aythya ferina) have been recorded from the long, with steep slopes creating a unique and wetlands of Kangchenjunga Conservation representative wetland in the high Eastern Area, but require further observation in Himalayan eco-region complex. It is an Singjema important source of freshwater for the Tamor Other birds recorded in the catchment area River, one of the tributaries of the Koshi River in are the Snow pigeon, White-capped redstart, Nepal that feeds into the Gangatic River basin. and finches; the catchment is a Snow leopard habitat; the lower section of the catchment is Local communities and herders from Tibet the winter habitat of the Red panda and Musk attribute Singjema Lake with powers to fulfill deer wishes. Unmarried women offer prayers to the Lumbini World Heritage Site (Prajna Regmi)