Why in News?
After heavy monsoon rains in 2025, Rajasthan’s Sambhar Lake has filled to near‑normal levels, prompting a dramatic increase in migratory birds. Wildlife officials reported that the number of visiting birds has risen by roughly 35–40 percent compared with the previous year. Tens of thousands of flamingos, shovelers and teals have been counted. This comes after a severe die‑off in 2019 when avian botulism killed thousands of birds due to low water levels and high salinity.
Background
Sambhar Lake, located about 80 kilometres southwest of Jaipur, is India’s largest inland saltwater lake and a designated Ramsar site under the wetland treaty of 1971. The lake covers around 190–230 square kilometres depending on rainfall and supports a thriving salt‑extraction industry. It is fed by seasonal rivers such as the Mendha and Rupangarh. Because of its shallow brackish waters, the lake attracts vast flocks of migratory birds including greater and lesser flamingos, northern shovelers, teals, avocets and sandpipers. In recent years unregulated salt mining, groundwater extraction and scant rainfall have reduced the lake’s water levels, leading to ecological stress.
Current developments
- Surge in bird numbers: Wildlife staff counted about 32,000 lesser flamingos and 35,000 greater flamingos, along with tens of thousands of shovelers and teals. The improved habitat conditions have provided ample food and nesting space.
- Concerns about bird mortality: Carcasses of some birds have been found, raising fears of avian botulism – a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Officials note that the risk is lower this year due to higher water levels, but carcasses are being promptly disposed of to prevent toxin buildup.
- Role of rainfall: Above‑average monsoon precipitation has replenished the lake and diluted its salinity. The water level is sufficiently high to support submerged vegetation and brine shrimps that form the birds’ diet.
Why this matters
- Biodiversity conservation: Sambhar Lake is a crucial wintering ground on the Central Asian flyway. A healthy lake supports thousands of migratory birds and maintains ecological balance.
- Indicator of environmental health: Water levels and bird populations serve as indicators of the lake’s condition. Sustained efforts to regulate salt mining and curb groundwater extraction are essential to prevent future crises.
- Tourism potential: Large congregations of flamingos and other birds attract nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities for responsible eco‑tourism that benefits local communities.
Sources: The Times of India