Najafgarh drain bird sanctuary, Bird sanctuary at Najafgarh drain, Delhi, India
The Najafgarh drain bird sanctuary is a protected wetland area along a drainage canal in Delhi that shelters various native and migratory waterbird species. The site stretches for several kilometers and provides habitats where birds use the canal and surrounding wet areas for feeding and breeding.
The area was once part of a large lake before drainage and urban development projects in the 1900s reshaped the landscape. The remaining wetland was later recognized and protected to conserve the many bird species that depend on it.
Local naturalists conducted extensive studies between 1986 and 1989, leading to the recognition and protection of this vital wildlife habitat in Delhi.
The best way to explore is via the inspection road that runs along the canal and offers good vantage points for bird watching. Early morning visits work best since birds are most active at that time.
Many rare and endangered bird species find a vital stopover here during their long migrations between Africa and Asia. These migratory birds depend on the feeding and resting areas that the sanctuary provides.
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