Ahiron Lake, Dhulian, West Bengal India

Ahiron Lake, Dhulian: Located  between 24°31 44.45"N 88° 1 50.89"E, Ahiron is an elliptical-shaped freshwater lake in Murshidabad District - about 250 kms northwest of Kolkata and a little more than 30 kms southeast of Dhulian at an elevation of 22 metres above sea level. The Lake is situated alongside National Highway 34 which runs through Murshidabad District and connects Kolkata city to North Bengal.

Being fed by the flood-water of River Ganges and it s tributary, during the monsoons, the Lake swells up to 68 hectares and summers shrink the Lake to 30 hectares. The dry land is then utilized for seasonal agriculture.  Ahiron Lake is a place for perennial fishing operations but a major chunk of the Lake is left untouched for the migratory birds.

Ahiron Lake is home to several endemic species of birds and many migratory birds too. The Red-crested Pochard Rhodonessa rufina is found in large numbers here. Near-threatened Ferruginous Duck, Black-tailed Godwits, Grey-headed Lapwings, Greater Spotted Eagle, Pallas s Fish-Eagle, Osprey Pandion, Marsh Harrier are also seen at Ahiron among others. In peak season, Ahiron Lake is known to be filled with hundreds of birds of more than 60 species. This is a fabulous place for bird and nature photographers.