24-05-2025
Sambhar Lake birds under threat from feral dogs: Environmentalists
Jaipur: Sambhar Lake, India's largest inland saltwater lake and a designated Ramsar site, is facing a serious ecological threat from feral dogs preying on its migratory bird population.
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With lake water levels significantly reduced, an estimated 7,000 to 8,000 birds have migrated closer to the city outskirts, increasing their vulnerability to urban scavengers. Currently, 30 to 40 packs of feral dogs roam the lake's periphery, attracted primarily by meat waste discarded by local butchers. These dog packs have developed coordinated hunting strategies, often encircling flocks of birds. As not all birds can take flight simultaneously, the tactic results in frequent and easy kills.
One of the worst-affected species is the Lesser Florican, a critically endangered bird. Environmentalist Gaurav Dadhich said, "Each day, two to three birds are being killed. The govt must either clean up the area or the municipal body should implement an animal birth control program. If no action is taken, this threat will continue to endanger flamingos and other species."
Despite being recognised as a Ramsar site, Sambhar Lake was previously not declared a wetland under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, leaving it without a dedicated management authority.
However, after a tragic incident in 2019—when nearly 22,000 migratory birds died from avian botulism, a neuromuscular disease—the state govt finally declared it a wetland and mandated a conservation plan. Yet, implementation has been lacking.
An official source said the Wetland Authority initiated a border demarcation process for Sambhar Lake, including installation of boundary pillars and a detailed survey.
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This was intended to protect both lake and the wildlife in the surrounding region. "The importance of Sambhar Lake lies not only in its Ramsar status but also in its role as a vital habitat for migratory birds and wildlife," said a local stakeholder, speaking on the condition of anonymity.
"The lake was once a popular tourist destination, but no meaningful conservation or development efforts have been made. Garbage is being dumped in the lake, birds are unsafe, and illegal salt extraction continues unchecked. Everything remains only on paper," he added.
