Kapilvastu, Jan. 21 -- The population of water birds has increased in Jagdishpur, an artificial lake constructed in Kapilvastu district for the purpose of irrigation, this year.

The fresh bird count concluded on Sunday showed that the lake, which was recognised as part of the Ramsar wetlands site in August 2003, is home to a total of 20,807 water birds. According to senior ornithologist Hem Sagar Baral, the number is 5,827 more than last year.

Although there is an increase in numbers, there is a decrease in the variety of species of birds, say conservationists. Only 41 different bird species were found in the area this year, while 53 species were found last year.

According to the conservationists, various species of sandpipers were not...