Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary Strengthens Wetland and Wildlife Conservation

Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary has intensified conservation efforts through waterbird monitoring, anti-poaching and anti-illegal fishing measures, and habitat restoration.

Key Conservation Developments

• During the 7th Kaziranga Waterbird Count 2026, forest officials recorded a high number and rich diversity of birds across important wetlands, including Rowmari, Dondowa and Muamari beels.
• The survey recorded the first-ever sighting of the Smew (Mergellus albellus) in the sanctuary, indicating its importance as a wintering habitat for migratory waterbirds.
• The Bengal florican, a threatened grassland bird, was also documented in the sanctuary.

Strengthening Wetland Protection

• The Forest Department has intensified action against illegal fishing within sanctuary waters.
• Measures include increased patrolling, surprise checks, monitoring points and legal action against offenders.
• Such enforcement is important because wetlands provide breeding, feeding and wintering habitats for several species.

Habitat Restoration

• Following an anti-encroachment drive in the Singimari sub-beat area in June 2026, restoration work was undertaken.
• More than 2,500 native saplings were planted across 1.5 hectares to restore vegetation and strengthen wildlife habitat.

Exam Hook – Prelims

Consider the following statements:

1. Smew is a migratory waterbird.
2. Bengal florican is associated with grassland habitats.
3. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 provides the legal framework for wildlife protection in India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Answer: 1, 2 and 3. One-line wrap: Laokhowa demonstrates how scientific biodiversity monitoring, strict enforcement and habitat restoration can work together to strengthen protected-area conservation.