The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is a Biodiversity Hotspot and a critical habitat for a diverse range of waterbird species. However, escalating challenges such as climate change and urbanization are threatening these sensitive ecosystems. The current study explores the challenges of waterbird conservation in IHR. It begins by examining the effects of climate change on waterbird habitats, focusing on altered hydrological patterns, shrinking wetlands and the shift in distribution of species. It then analyzes how rapid urbanization, including infrastructure development, pollution and land-use changes, exacerbates habitat degradation and fragmentation. To address these challenges, the current study advocates for integrated conservation strategies that incorporate habitat restoration, sustainable development practices, and community engagement. Finally, it highlights critical policy and research gaps, emphasizing the need for robust climate-adaptive frameworks, long-term monitoring programs, and cross sectoral collaboration to safeguard waterbird populations in the IHR. This comprehensive overview aims to provide a foundation for targeted conservation actions in the face of growing environmental and anthropogenic pressures.

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Challenges to Waterbird Conservation in the Indian Himalayan Region: The Impacts of Climate Change and Urbanization

  • Santosh Sharma,
  • Manjula Karunarathne

摘要

The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) is a Biodiversity Hotspot and a critical habitat for a diverse range of waterbird species. However, escalating challenges such as climate change and urbanization are threatening these sensitive ecosystems. The current study explores the challenges of waterbird conservation in IHR. It begins by examining the effects of climate change on waterbird habitats, focusing on altered hydrological patterns, shrinking wetlands and the shift in distribution of species. It then analyzes how rapid urbanization, including infrastructure development, pollution and land-use changes, exacerbates habitat degradation and fragmentation. To address these challenges, the current study advocates for integrated conservation strategies that incorporate habitat restoration, sustainable development practices, and community engagement. Finally, it highlights critical policy and research gaps, emphasizing the need for robust climate-adaptive frameworks, long-term monitoring programs, and cross sectoral collaboration to safeguard waterbird populations in the IHR. This comprehensive overview aims to provide a foundation for targeted conservation actions in the face of growing environmental and anthropogenic pressures.