Exploring the Fulbari Canal Wetland

Exploring the Fulbari Canal Wetland

Fulbari Canal is located 10 km from Siliguri and attracts a large number of migratory birds in winter. Visitors start arriving at this wetland in mid-November and depart by the first week of March.

Eurasian Wigeon in Fulbari Wetland
Eurasian Wigeon in Fulbari Wetland

Jalpaiguri district is home to Fulbari Wetland, which spans over 4.90 sq km from Nayabasti to the main barrage. Fulbari 1, 2, and a portion of Phansidewa Block, including the villages of Porajhar, Barapathuram, and Paschim Dhantala, are part of the Rajganj and Phansidewa blocks that govern the area. Enthusiastic bird lovers and photographers visit this place during the season, where the birds float on the river, forming bonds in nature.

Various species of migratory birds, including the Ruddy Shelduck, Bar-headed Goose, Northern Lapwing, and Gadwall, arrive every year from Tibet, Siberia, and Mongolia. There is also bushland at Porajhar, on the western side of the river.

Black-winged Stilt
Black-winged Stilt in Fulbari Wetland
Siberian Bluethroat in bushland
Siberian Bluethroat in the bushland of Porajhar

Some endangered species like the Yellow-breasted Bunting are sighted every year. The Siberian Rubythroat is also one of the main attractions of Porajhar. The Wryneck is also available in this bushland during the winter season.

Wryneck bird near Porajhar
Wryneck spotted near Porajhar