Waterfowl Population Trends in the Major Rivers of Chitwan National Park, Nepal

A decade-long study (2010–2019) of waterfowl populations along the Rapti and Narayani Rivers in Chitwan National Park, Nepal, reveals significant population trends among 18 species, with six showing increasing trends. The Ruddy Shelduck dominated the population at 80%, while the Bar-Headed Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, and Common Teal exhibited strong growth rates of +18.96% to +12.44%. Conversely, the Lesser Whistling Duck and Northern Pintail faced steep declines (-12.85% and -10.80%, respectively). The study also highlights that these rivers support critical populations of waterfowl in the South Asian Flyway, meeting Ramsar Criteria 6 for international conservation significance. This research provides a vital baseline for managing and conserving waterfowl habitats in Chitwan National Park, where continuous data has been lacking.

Khadka, B. B., & Lamichhane, S. (2021). Waterfowl Population Trends in the Major Rivers of Chitwan National Park, Nepal. Waterbirds, 44(2). https://doi.org/10.1675/063.044.0206