Danapur earlier known as Dinapur is a
satellite town of Patna , the capital of Bihar . It is about 17 kilometres from
Patna and is well connected from Patna junction through rail or road . There is
Indian Army's cantonment area in Danapur which literally turns this place into
a bird sanctuary every year during May – September with thousands of Siberian
cranes making it their abode ahead of monsoon rains. Siberians cranes are
sensitive but disciplined birds, which fly in groups in search of food. They
travel long distances in search for favourable environment. Cranes find the
cantonment area a safe shelter and thus flock the place each year before
monsoon. These birds also find a welcoming host in the Indian army authorities
stationed here. Cantonment officials have marked out specific areas, favourite
with the cranes, as an ecological park . Any human activity and movement of
vehicles is restricted, to ensure a safe place for the migratory birds. The
birds come to Danapur military area since there are a lot of trees. They are
not hunted here and this is the reason they come here .However, unfortunately a few villagers and outsiders become
successful in hunting them clandestinely . Cranes like the logged
rainwater in the area, which helps breeding of small fish. Thus this is a
convenient place for the cranes in regard to food also.They also find plenty of
fish in the nearby Ganges River. The idea to play as good hosts for the
Siberian cranes has drawn many residents also to join hands with the Army
personnel here. Residents believe that the cranes signify fortune with rains
for the farmers. The larger the number of birds better are the chances of heavy
rainfall which ultimately would bring prosperity for all. The cranes begin
descending the area in late May and early June. They start nesting soon after .
They lay eggs here. When the eggs hatch, they leave the place with their cheeks
. The birds usually leave by mid-September to their native places . I hope national / international agencies
working for environment must be in the know of this area . If they wish they
could do more for the conservation of these birds with the help of Danapur
Military cantonment and extend the area to a few kilometers ahead northward
with the help of Bihar Government giving the entire area a good forest cover .
This may help promote eco-tourism in the area converting it into a veritable
ecological park .
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