The status of water birds in and around 11 lakes and 10 marshes in the Changthang Cold Desert Sanctuary, Ladakh was examined during July-August 2001. During the survey 44 species of water birds were recorded of which 19 species were breeding in various wetlands.

The Kabartal wetland situated in the upper Indo-Gangetic flood plains in northern India is significant because of its hydrological and ecological services, and the socio-economic and cultural values that it represents. Despite being designated as a wildlife sanctuary, this wetland is under threat from anthropogenic pressures.