What threats does Sambhar Lake face despite the high bird count?

Despite the encouraging numbers, Sambhar Lake faces threats from pollution, industrial waste, excessive tourism activities, illegal borewells, encroachments, and disturbances by domestic animals.

Which species of birds were most prominent at Sambhar Lake in 2026?

Flamingos led the spectacle with over 1.8 lakh individuals, while other notable species included Northern Shovelers, Avocets, and Common Teals.

Home / Environment / Sambhar Lake Sees Record 2.3 Lakh Migratory Birds

Sambhar Lake Sees Record 2.3 Lakh Migratory Birds

Q: How many migratory waterbirds were recorded at Sambhar Lake in 2026?

Sambhar Lake recorded an unprecedented 2.3 lakh migratory waterbirds from 47 species during the Asian Waterbird Census, 2026.

28 Jan

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Summary

Sambhar Lake hosted an unprecedented 2.3 lakh migratory birds from 47 species.
Flamingos led the count with over 1.8 lakh individuals, turning the lake pink.
Pollution and excessive tourism pose significant threats to the wetland's avian population.

Sambhar Lake Sees Record 2.3 Lakh Migratory Birds

Sambhar Lake, India's largest inland saltwater wetland, has recorded an unprecedented 2.3 lakh migratory waterbirds from 47 species during the recent Asian Waterbird Census (AWC), 2026. This influx highlights the lake's critical role as a staging area on the Central Asian Flyway. The census, conducted across three zones, identified the main Sambhar Lake and Sitarampura Lake as having the highest species diversity.

Flamingos were the most prominent species, with over 1.8 lakh individuals observed, significantly contributing to the vibrant pink hues across the hypersaline waters. Favorable rainfall this year created ideal conditions for these birds. Other significant species included Northern Shovelers, Avocets, and Common Teals, among many others.