Naupada Swamp, Location, Formation, Spot-billed Pelicans

Naupada Swamp, also called Naupada Wetland, lies in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh. It is a freshwater ecosystem formed by river inflows and seasonal rainfall. It supports rich biodiversity and acts as an important bird habitat, especially at Telineelapuram Important Bird Area. The wetland is ecologically significant due to its role in sustaining migratory birds, aquaculture linked food chains and regional hydrology without direct marine influence.

Naupada Swamp

Naupada Swamp is a freshwater wetland sustained by rivers and rainfall, located near Palasa town in Andhra Pradesh. It supports diverse aquatic life and bird habitats.

• Location: Situated in Santha Bommali mandal of Srikakulam district.
• Formation: it is a freshwater swamp formed by river inflows and monsoon rains.
• Ecological Importance: The wetland supports fish, snails and invertebrates, forming a complex aquatic food chain that sustains migratory birds and maintains biodiversity in the region.
• Telineelapuram IBA: This swamp includes Telineelapuram Important Bird Area, known for hosting thousands of migratory birds including pelicans and painted storks breeding seasonally.
• Human Influence: Aquaculture practices around the swamp contribute to ecological changes and have been linked to parasite transmission affecting bird populations.

Spot-billed Pelicans of Naupada Swamp

Spot-billed pelicans, scientifically called Pelecanus philippensis, are key migratory birds in Naupada Swamp but face threats from nematode infestation affecting survival.

• Migration and Habitat: Thousands migrate from Siberian regions to Telineelapuram IBA for breeding, preferring freshwater and coastal wetlands across South and Southeast Asia.
• Nematode Infestation Issue: Since December 2021, nematode parasites linked to aquaculture ponds have caused mass mortality, with over 160 deaths and about five birds dying daily.
• Species Characteristics: These pelicans are grey-white birds with orange-yellow facial skin, social in nature, strong fliers and skilled fish hunters in shallow waters.
• Conservation Status: Listed as Near Threatened by IUCN, experts from Wildlife Institute of India, BNHS and ZSI are involved in mitigation efforts to control mortality. 

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