Bio-diversity

Taudaha, The only remaining natural lake in the Kathmandu Valley, occupies an area of 463 ha. Situated to the south-west of the valley, it is a home of some 118 species of bird representing 28 different families including migratory birds from Northern Himalayas. Likewise, the lake also harbors 39 species of aquatic plants and rich fish fauna which includes 36 Taxa of macro invertebrates mainly Oligochaeta, Ephimeroptera and Mollusca. The lake has also its cultural significance. According to the legend, Karkotak Nagraj and Nagrani (the King and Queen of Serpents) and Lord Ganesh reside in the pond and thus no fishing and boating are allowed till now. The lake is surrounded by agricultural field and eutrophication resulted by the intensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides at the upstream, is the major threat to the wetland. The project aimed to help local communities to carry out conservation efforts that will protect the Taudaha area and contribute to sustainable livelihood of the local farming community. The project also emphasized in increasing local stewardship specially the school children via different artwork, poetry, poem, drama and puppet show etc.

Nepal