Flamingos Return to Punjab Lakes After Conservation Push

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Lahore: The return of flamingos and other rare waterbirds to Punjab’s lakes and wetlands reflects improving ecosystem health and the success of wildlife conservation measures, Chief Wildlife Ranger of the Punjab Wildlife and Parks Department Mubeen Elahi said on Sunday.

Speaking about the province’s wetlands, Elahi said flamingos have recently settled in several lakes, including Rukh Khanpur, describing their presence as a positive indicator of a healthy and secure natural environment.

He said Punjab’s more than 250 lakes and wetlands serve as vital habitats for millions of resident and migratory waterbirds arriving from Siberia, Russia and Central Asia during the migration season.

Among the province’s key wetlands are Rukh Khanpur, Chashma Lake, Uchali, Khabbaki, Jahlar and Kallar Kahar in the Soon Valley, all of which continue to attract a diverse range of migratory bird species.

According to Elahi, the availability of suitable food, peaceful habitats and strengthened conservation measures has encouraged migratory birds to return in greater numbers.

He attributed the revival of waterbird populations to the elimination of illegal hunting and trapping, continuous monitoring and improved protection of wildlife habitats.

The chief wildlife ranger said that, on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the department has implemented a comprehensive monitoring system to safeguard rare wildlife and migratory birds, with encouraging results now becoming visible.

He added that, for the first time in Punjab, a dedicated patrolling system has been introduced to protect waterfowl and wildlife, ensuring strict surveillance around lakes, ponds and other wetlands across the province.