Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, also known as Keetham Lake, was established in 1991 by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department. Spread over an area of 7.97 sq km, this sanctuary comprises a large lake covering area of 2.25 sq km. The depth of the lake varies from 4 metres to 8 metres.

The area around the lake has been transformed and developed into wetlands by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department. Owing to this, the lake became a haven for birds, including migratory birds and residential birds. The area around the lake provides shelter to more than 165 species of birds.

During the summer season, the entire lake area is covered by macrophytic vegetation of water hyacinth and Potamogeton species. On the other hand, during winter season, the water quality of the lake supports wide range of avifauna. Some of the aquatic birds that can be spotted are little gerbs, purple heron, paddy bird, cormorants, darter and grey heron.

Visitors can also catch a glimpse of cattle egrets, large egrets, smaller egrets ad little egrets. Other bird species like night heron, bar headed goose, spoonbill, greying goose, pintail and comb duck can also be seen here. Sur Sarovar has one of the biggest Bear Rescue centres.