Chitwan, Dec. 29 -- As winter tightens its grip on the plains of Chitwan, flocks of migratory aquatic birds from the northern hemisphere once again arrive along the Narayani and Rapti rivers, seeking refuge in wetlands that have sustained life for generations.

Every year, the number and variety of these birds fluctuate, raising growing concern among conservationists. This winter, a group of trained local youths-known as "champions"- are working to understand why these changes are happening and what can be done to protect the fragile ecosystems on which the birds depend.

Among them is Lal Bahadur Bote, a nature guide from ward 15 of Kawasoti Municipality in Nawalparasi East. For years, he has guided tourists through Chitwan National Park...