Chilika Lake

About Chilika Lake

• Chilika Lake is a brackish water lagoon in Odisha.
• It is located at the mouth of the Daya River, flowing into the Bay of Bengal.
• It is the largest coastal lagoon in India and the second largest coastal lagoon in the world.
• Chilika Lake was designated the first Indian wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
• Chilika Lake is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds, on the Indian sub-continent.
• It has been listed as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage site.

Important Fauna

• It is the largest wintering ground for migratory birds on the Indian sub-continent. The lake is home to a number of threatened species of plants and animals.
• Green sea turtle (EN), dugong (VU), Irrawaddy dolphin (EN), blackbuck (least concern), Spoon billed sandpiper (CR) and fishing cat (VU).
• Important birds include lesser flamingos, spoon-billed sandpiper (CR) and spot-billed pelican (NT).

Nalbana Bird Sanctuary

• Nalbana Bird Sanctuary is located in the core area of the Ramsar designated wetlands of Chilika Lake.
• It was declared a bird sanctuary under the Wildlife Protection Act in 1972.

Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding Chilka Lake:
1.It is a RAMSAR wetland of international importance.
2.Nalbana bird sanctuary is located in Chilka lake.
Which among the above statements is/are correct?
(a)1 only 
(b)2 only 
(c)Both 1 and 2
(d)Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to prelims question