India designates Gogabil Lake in Bihar as 94th Ramsar Site

India has declared Gogabil Lake in Katihar district, Bihar, as its 94th Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.

Key Highlights:

• Ramsar Site Details: It is listed as Ramsar Site No. 2579 on the official Ramsar List.
• Geographical Setting: Gogabil is an oxbow wetland located between the Ganga (Ganges) and Mahananda Rivers. During floods, the lake connects with both rivers.
• Community Conservation: The lake, forming most of the Ramsar Site area, is Bihar’s first Community Reserve, managed and conserved by the local community.
• Ecological Significance: Gogabil serves as an important wintering ground for migratory bird species along the Central Asian Flyway.
• Avian Diversity: Notably, it shelters the vulnerable Common Pochard (Aythya ferina) and has been recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA).
• Aquatic Life: The vulnerable catfish Wallago attu is known to breed within the lake ecosystem.

Source: RAMSAR