3 new IBA’s give boost to bird conservation in Goa

Systematic data collection and conservation intent of Goa Bird Conservation Network (GBCN) has led to the inclusion of three new Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas from Goa in the latest book ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBA): Priority Sites for Conservation’ authored by noted ornithologist Dr Asad Rahmani along with two other co-authors, published by Bombay Natural History Society.

According to a statement here today, the inclusion has raised the total tally of IBA’s to seven from the state.

IBA’s are sites of international significance for conservation of birds and their habitats at the global, regionaland local level.

The selection of IBA is a particularly effective way of identifying conservation priorities. IBAs are key sites forconservation — small enough to be conserved in their entirety and often already part of a protected area network.

Before 2017, Goa had four IBAs identified and recognized which included Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, Carambolim Wetlands, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuaryand Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.

With the new book being released, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Navelim Wetlands bordering the villages of Navelim and Kudne in Bicholim taluka and Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary are the three new IBAs which have been recognized by BirdLife International as priority sites for bird and bird habitat conservation in the state.

Apart from three new areas, the extent of Carambolim Wetland has been increased to include the very important and fragile region of Dhado which has recently become a very important wintering ground for many species of migratory birds.

Source: http://news.webindia123.com/news/Articles/India/20170613/3124068.html