Discovering Keoladeo National Park: An Ecological Treasure

Introduction to Keoladeo National Park

With the arrival of favorable monsoon rains, migratory birds such as storks, pelicans, painted storks, and bar-headed geese have returned to Keoladeo National Park. This marks an ecological revival in one of India's most renowned wetlands, celebrated globally as a bird-watcher’s paradise. Keoladeo plays a crucial role in wetland conservation, winter migration, and ecological research.

About Keoladeo National Park

Located in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan, Keoladeo National Park was originally recognized as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.

Historical Background

• Founded in the late 19th century as a hunting reserve by Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur.
• Declared a bird sanctuary in 1956 and upgraded to national park status in 1981.
• Renamed Keoladeo after an ancient Shiva temple within the park.

Area & Protection

The park covers an area of 29 square kilometers and is unique among Indian parks due to its complete enclosure by a 2-meter boundary wall, which prevents encroachments.

Conservation Importance

Keoladeo is recognized worldwide for its significant ecological contributions:

• It is one of the world’s most vital bird breeding and feeding habitats.
• Designated as both a Ramsar Wetland Site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, emphasizing its role in global biodiversity conservation.

Geography and Vegetation

The park features a diverse array of wetland systems, including:

• Woodlands
• Swamps
• Wet grasslands

The vegetation primarily consists of dry deciduous species, which include:

• Kadam
• Jamun
• Babul
• Kandi
• Ber
• Kair
• Piloo

This mosaic ecosystem supports a variety of herbivores, reptiles, and bird life.

Fauna Richness

Keoladeo's biodiversity extends beyond birds and includes:

• Mammals: Deer, Sambars, Blackbucks, Jackals, Fishing cats.
• Reptiles: Pythons, Monitor lizards, Snakes, and amphibians.

Migratory Pathway Significance

Keoladeo is situated along the Central Asian migratory flyway, which is one of the world’s major bird migration routes. This makes the park a crucial staging and wintering ground for migratory birds.

Bird Population & Migration

The park is home to over 360 species of resident and migratory birds, with the peak migration season occurring from October to March. Visitors come from regions such as Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, China, and Siberia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of Keoladeo National Park in bird conservation?
Answer: Keoladeo National Park is vital for bird conservation, serving as a breeding and feeding habitat for numerous species, and is recognized as a Ramsar site and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Q2. How many bird species can be found in Keoladeo National Park?
Answer: The park is home to over 360 species of both resident and migratory birds, making it a key location for bird watchers and researchers.

Q3. Why is Keoladeo National Park enclosed by a boundary wall?
Answer: The boundary wall serves to protect the park from encroachments and human interference, ensuring the preservation of its unique ecosystem.

Q4. When is the best time to visit Keoladeo National Park for bird watching?
Answer: The peak migration season from October to March is the best time for bird watching, as many migratory species are present during this period.

Q5. What types of vegetation are found in Keoladeo National Park?
Answer: The park features a mix of dry deciduous trees, shrubs, and wetland vegetation, supporting a diverse range of wildlife.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What year was Keoladeo National Park declared a bird sanctuary?
A) 1956
B) 1981
C) 1975
D) 1990
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: Which of the following species is not commonly found in Keoladeo National Park?
A) Bar-headed goose
B) Python
C) Snow leopard
D) Blackbuck
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: Keoladeo National Park is located in which Indian state?
A) Gujarat
B) Rajasthan
C) Madhya Pradesh
D) Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: B