To mark this year’s World Wetland Day, authorities at the Haripura wetland in northern India organized a special field trip for school children.

The children were taught about the importance of the wetlands in helping migratory birds.

A large variety of these birds make this wetland their winter home to nest and breed.

The wetland is located near the Haripura dam, and is also a favorite spot for bird watchers.

Various species of migratory birds like the bar-headed geese, northern shoveler, Siberian crane and the black stork can be found here.

But the number of birds coming here has dwindled over the years.

[Parang Madhukar, Forest Ranger]:
"When we talk about climate change, these wetlands have become a major indicator to map the visible change in climate. This area has been developed as a conservation base for the migratory birds that come here during winters. As an initiative to save the birds, we have organized a bird watching and conservation program this year."

The wetland is spread over 1,100 acres and authorities are hoping to develop it into an eco-tourism site.