Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary Records First Smew Sighting
Why in the news
A rare migratory duck, the Smew, was spotted for the first time at Laokhowa during the 2026 waterbird count. Bengal Floricans were seen too.
Key facts
- Area: 70.13 sq km, in Nagaon, central Assam.
- Southern bank of the Brahmaputra; a migration corridor.
- Notified buffer zone of Kaziranga Tiger Reserve.
| Direction | Neighbouring area |
|---|---|
| East | Kaziranga National Park |
| West | Orang National Park, Pobitora Sanctuary |
| North | Pakke-Nameri |
| South | Karbi Anglong hills |
The two birds
- Smew: small migratory diving duck; a sighting this far south-east is unusual.
- Bengal Florican: Critically Endangered grassland bird; its presence signals intact tall grassland.
Exam angle
- State and district: Assam, Nagaon.
- Event: 7th Kaziranga Waterbird Count 2026.