Batuli Pokhari turns into a nesting haven for Asian openbills

Batuli Pokhari, a wetland within Nepal's Barandabhar forest, has transformed into a vibrant bird sanctuary this monsoon. Hundreds of Asian openbills have chosen the area to build nests on the branches of dead trees rising from the water, creating a bustling breeding ground away from urban noise.

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There were 410 nests two years ago. The number rose to 478 last year. We have not counted them this year yet because nest-building is continuing.

The annual nesting season has begun, with pairs of Asian openbills actively raising their young on the weathered branches. Gajendra Pokharel, a member of the Bird Education Society, has been monitoring the nests for years. He noted that the number of nests has grown from 410 two years ago to 478 last year, with this year's count still ongoing as nest-building continues. Some nests already show signs of chicks.

These birds primarily feed on snails found in farmlands and wetlands, making them beneficial to farmers by controlling pests. However, Pokharel warns that the increasing use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agricultural areas poses a threat to their food supply and overall health. The birds select locations with ample food and minimal human disturbance, which explains their preference for Batuli Pokhari, situated near agricultural fields.

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The birds choose areas where food is available, and human disturbance is limited. That is why they have selected Batuli Pokhari, which lies close to agricultural fields.

Local communities initiated conservation efforts by protecting a water channel within the Batuli Pokhari Buffer Zone Community Forest to improve irrigation. This preserved water body has become an ideal habitat for the birds. Residents observed that the trees died due to water accumulation, and about five to six years ago, Asian openbills began nesting there. Conservationists like Tika Giri note that nesting on water-surrounded trees offers protection from predators such as snakes and monitor lizards. The birds meticulously build their nests using twigs from dead branches, continuing to add materials until their young are independent.

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The birds choose areas where food is available, and human disturbance is limited. That is why they have selected Batuli Pokhari, which lies close to agricultural fields.