Jaipur, Mar 18 (PTI) Even as most migratory birds have begun departing from Rajasthan with the end of winter, a pond in Borkheda village near Jaipur has emerged as an exception, hosting large flocks of bar-headed geese, experts said.
More than 500 of these migratory birds, which travel to warmer reaches of the subcontinent from their native haunts in Ladakh, Mongolia and the Tibetan plateau during winters, have been spotted in three large groups at the water body in Chaksu area, piquing the interest of bird enthusiasts.
Ornithologist Kamlesh Sharma said bar-headed geese, locally known as ‘rajhans’, are among the highest-flying bird species, and can sour up to altitudes of 12,000-14,000 feet.
He said their unique haemoglobin allows them to absorb more oxygen even in low-oxygen conditions, enabling them to cross towering Himalayan ranges.
Experts said although much of the pond has dried up, remaining patches of water continue to provide a suitable habitat for these migratory birds.
Environmentalist Satish Kumar Sharma said fluctuating temperatures, low human interference and abundance of food have encouraged these birds to stay longer in the area.
The herbivorous birds can be seen feeding on aquatic vegetation and grass in the surroundings, amid the serene landscape at some distance from bustling Jaipur. PTI AG ARB ARB
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