Harike Bird Sanctuary Wetland Ecology Punjab

Harike wetland at the confluence of the Sutlej and Beas rivers in Ferozepur district is India's largest wetland in the northern plains and a Ramsar site designated in 1990, supporting populations of Indus river dolphins, otters, freshwater turtles, and over 300 bird species including the rare Siberian crane, black-necked stork, and bar-headed goose on their winter migration from Central Asia. The wetland's shallow backwaters behind the Harike barrage support extensive reed beds and submerged vegetation that provide nesting habitat for herons, egrets, and waders. Punjab Wildlife Department manages Harike as a protected area while balancing the irrigation interests of the downstream canal system originating from the barrage.