Located
on plain of the Koshi River in the eastern Terai of Nepal,
the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve (175 sq km) is home to
around 441 species of birds, including 30 shore birds,
114 water birds, 20 ducks and 2 ibises. The endangered
swamp partridge and Bengal florican are also found here.
The Koshi is an extremely important resting-place for
migratory birds numbering o 87 winter visitors.
The
Koshi river which forms the major landmark of the Nepalese
geography is the home of 80 fish species. The endangered
Gharial crocodile and Gangetic dolphin are also found
here. Koshi is an exclusive reserve for the last surviving
population of wild buffalo or arna in Nepal. Its number
at present is estimated to be 150. The reserve is a habitat
of 20 other animal species such as hog deer, spotted deer,
wild boar, blue bull and rock python.
The
vegetation in this region mainly includes tall khar-pater
grasslands with a few patches of khair-sissoo scrub forest
and deciduous mixed riverine forest.
During
the monsoon, the reserve is flooded with depths ranging
from 10 to 300 cm. From season to season the Koshi River
changes its course. The Koshi river also know as the Sapta
Koshi meaning seven great rivers collects waters from
the glaciers, glacial lakes, and the monsoon rains.Embankments
are constructed parallel to the river to check flooding
in the surrounding villages. Sunsets over the river are
phenomenal. On clear days, views of the Himalayan peaks
including the Mt Makalu add beauties to the landscape.
Recognizing
its global significance, the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
has been recognized as the Ramsar Site in 1987. The reserve
was gazette notified in 1976.
Bird
watching along the eastern embankment at dusk and dawn
is one of the most exciting pleasure trips in the reserve.
The Arnas with their huge horns are equally impressive
to look at. Elephant ride, nature walk, driving along
the embankment and strolling around the villages are interesting
activities.
