Sultanpur National Park: A Haven for Migratory Birds

Sultanpur National Park: A Sanctuary for migratory birds

Sultanpur National Park is once again filled with the vibrant sounds of migratory birds, as their populations surge with the cooling temperatures. This park is a crucial habitat for avian life, particularly during the winter months.

About Sultanpur National Park

Located in the Gurgaon district of Haryana, Sultanpur National Park, formerly known as Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, lies 46 km from Delhi. The park spans 1.42 square kilometers and is characterized by its marshy lakes and floodplains.

The core area, covering 1.21 square kilometers, includes the prominent Sultanpur Lake or Jheel. This seasonal freshwater wetland experiences varying water levels throughout the year, primarily nourished by water from the River Yamuna's Gurgaon canal and nearby agricultural runoff.

Gaining national acclaim in the late 1960s, the park has been a focal point for conservation efforts led by renowned ornithologists Peter Michel Jackson and Dr. Salim Ali, who often visited for birdwatching. In 2021, it was designated as a Ramsar site, highlighting its international significance for wetland conservation.

flora and fauna

The vegetation within the park is predominantly tropical and dry deciduous. Notable flora includes various grasses, dhok, khair, tendu, ber, jamun, banyan trees, neem, berberis, Acacia nilotica, and Acacia tortilis.

Sultanpur is a vital wintering ground for over 320 bird species, making it a key stopover on the 'Central Asian Migratory Flyway.' Each winter, thousands of migratory birds from regions such as Russia, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Europe flock to the park.

Winter Migrants and Resident Birds

• Winter Migrants: Greater Flamingos, Northern Pintails, Eurasian Wigeons, Common Teals, and Bar-headed Geese.
• Resident Birds: Indian Peafowl, Red-wattled Lapwings, Cattle Egrets, and White-throated Kingfishers.
• Rare/Threatened Species: Sarus Crane, Black-necked Stork, and Indian Courser.

Additionally, the park is home to various terrestrial fauna, including Nilgai, Sambar, Golden Jackals, wild dogs, striped hyenas, Indian porcupines, and mongooses, enriching its biodiversity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the significance of Sultanpur National Park?
Answer: Sultanpur National Park is significant as a Ramsar site and an Important Bird Area, attracting diverse migratory birds and supporting rich biodiversity, especially during winter.

Q2. How many bird species can be found in Sultanpur National Park?
Answer: Over 320 bird species have been recorded in Sultanpur National Park, making it a crucial site for birdwatching and conservation efforts.

Q3. What types of flora are present in the park?
Answer: The park features tropical and dry deciduous vegetation, including grasses, dhok, khair, and various tree species like neem and banyan trees.

Q4. Which migratory birds visit Sultanpur National Park?
Answer: Migratory birds such as Greater Flamingos, Northern Pintails, and Bar-headed Geese frequently visit Sultanpur during the winter months.

Q5. What conservation efforts have been made for Sultanpur National Park?
Answer: Conservation efforts led by ornithologists in the late 1960s and the park's recognition as a Ramsar site in 2021 have helped protect its unique ecosystem and biodiversity.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What year was Sultanpur National Park recognized as a Ramsar site?
A) 2019
B) 2020
C) 2021
D) 2022
Correct Answer: C

Question 2: How many bird species are recorded in Sultanpur National Park?
A) Over 100
B) Over 200
C) Over 300
D) Over 400
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: Which of the following is a winter migrant to Sultanpur National Park?
A) Indian Peafowl
B) Greater Flamingo
C) Red-wattled Lapwing
D) Cattle Egret
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: What type of vegetation is predominantly found in Sultanpur National Park?
A) Tropical rainforest
B) Tropical and dry deciduous
C) Coniferous forest
D) Grassland
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which rare species can be found in Sultanpur National Park?
A) Common Teal
B) Sarus Crane
C) Eurasian Wigeon
D) Northern Pintail
Correct Answer: B