Conservation Value:

The Koshi Tappu wetland is the largest in Nepal and was established as a wildlife reserve in 1978 to protect the country’s remaining population of the wild water buffalos.  It is also the country’s most important site for migratory and wintering waterbirds.  There are over 38 species of globally endangered and threatened species of mammals, birds and reptiles. Among these, the Bengal florican is one of the most endangered birds in the world and nests on land purchased by ICFC support of this project. Other noteworthy species include wild water buffalo, Asian elephant, Ganges river dolphin, mugger crocodile, swamp francolin, slender-billed vulture and the red-crowned roof turtle.

Threats:

Thousands of people live in the small communities surrounding the Reserve where the primary threats stem from agricultural practices such as uncontrolled burning of grasslands, wood extraction, grazing by cattle, and agricultural chemicals.  Poorly regulated hunting, trapping, and the illegal wildlife trade have direct impacts on fauna.  Aggressive invasive plant species such as water hyacinth and water lettuce have clogged wetlands, while 'mile-a-minute grass' has replaced natural grasslands.

Actions & Results:

• Strategic purchase of land in the buffer areas of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Refuge to stop encroachment and restore habitats (160 acres completed as of 2021).
• Restoration of wetland and grassland habitats at Koshi Tappu to save remaining populations of critically endangered Bengal Floricans
• Installation of signage and fencing as needed to limit and mitigate human and livestock damage
• Development of education outreach that targets the enforcement of laws protecting wildlife and habitats and reducing the volume of agricultural chemicals.