Wintering birds in and around the vicinity of Lake Mansar, district Udhampur (J&K)

A systematic survey of Mansar was done from 2004 – 2007 periods in order to check the status of wintering birds. The most important specialty of this area is a lake which has been given the status of wetland and is known as Lake Mansar. This lake serves as a major aquatic habitat and feeding ground for the migratory birds during the winter season. The elevation of Lake Mansar is 666 m above sea level in the Shivaliks terrain of Jammu. A total of 21 species of wintering birds were reported from the study area. These 21 species include true winter migrants as well as local migrants. Among 17 winter migrants, 8 species were found to be of waterfowls and rest 9 species includes Herons, Bittern as well as Steppe Eagle. Besides this, 4 species were observed to be residents but show local migration in the months of winter thereby increasing their number. Coots were found to be first among the winter migrants to arrive in the study area. Moreover, their number was also found to be the maximum (96 ).