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Location:
46
Kms From Delhi, Haryana
Founded by: Dr. Salim Ali
Main Attractions: Migratory Birds, Kingfishers
Haryana's
Bird Paradise
Located 46 kms from Delhi, Sultanpur National Park, is just
a- short drive away from the Delhi - Jaipur
Highway. A stretch of marshy land has been remodelled. The artificial
mounds have turned into green glades. The marsh has been converted
into a water body. A number of organisms like crustaceans, fish
and insects thrive during floods, which attract a number of birds
to this area.
The
sanctuary potential of the place was first recognised by the world
famous ornithologist, Mr. Peter Jackson. Keeping in view its importance
and potential, the area covering 359 acres was declared a bird sanctuary
in 1971 and was upgraded to the status of National Park in 1991
by Haryana Government. Sultanpur was a haunt of our very own birdman,
Late Dr. Salim Ali.
The
Avian Population
With the years, hundreds of species of migratory birds have winged
in to stay here. Winter brings in birds from as far as Siberia.
Flock of geese from Europe also flit in. The local birds flap in,
too. A world of darters, egrets, shovellers, gadwell, geese dominate.
Teals, kingfishers, lapwings, sandpipers, demoiselle cranes and
such other water birds flock in. Over 100 species have been identified
here. The number of birds visiting the place has multiplied over
the years.
Every
year nearly 90 migratory birds arrive here in search of feeding
grounds and also to spend the winter. In winter, the sanctuary affords
a picturesque panorama of migratory birds such as rosy pelican,
spotted sandpiper, starling, blue throat etc. in summer, 11 species
of birds such as koel and cuckoo can be recognised by their melodious
voice. Apart from birds, animal species like blue bull are also
found in plenty in the area.
Bird-Watching
Made Easy
Innumerable bird watchers come in to observe bird antics. There
are hideouts, watchtowers and a museum of sorts for those keen on
serious study. Guestrooms and catering wing await the patrons.
Facilities:
Guestrooms, restaurant, family cottages, a bar, hideouts and watchtowers.
The
government is constantly endeavouring to improve the habitat so
that more birds come to nest in this area and also to help the bird
lovers to come and study the bird life. The bird lovers on their
part are requested not to disturb the birds by creating noise or
frightening them with music. |