This pioneering project, the first of its kind in the Central Asian Flyway under WWF’s Wetlands for Asian Flyways programme, is dedicated to restoring and creating wetland habitats in the Narayani River floodplains, including areas surrounding the buffer zones of Chitwan National Park. Its central aim is to safeguard migratory birds by strengthening the ecological connectivity of flyways through active community-led wetland conservation.

Beyond bird conservation, the project is designed to deliver multiple co-benefits for people and nature. Healthy wetlands will contribute to food and water security for local communities, regulate floods, and play a role in climate adaptation. By linking biodiversity conservation with the well-being of local people, WWF Nepal envisions a model that demonstrates how ecological restoration and human resilience can go hand in hand.

Education and awareness form a strong pillar of this initiative. Experiential learning is being prioritized, especially for children and youth, to foster a deeper understanding of wetlands, migratory birds, and the need for long-term conservation. By nurturing early awareness, the project aims to build a new generation of conservation leaders who will sustain these efforts into the future.

To support this, the project includes the design of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials that can effectively share key messages with diverse audiences. These materials will take the form of posters, brochures, stickers, and comic strips, combining clear illustrations and concise texts. The themes will cover an introduction to wetlands, the threats they face, ways to protect and restore them, their ecological benefits, and the diversity of bird species that depend on these habitats. Additionally, they will highlight bird feeding guilds, migration routes, and the ecological significance of seasonal movements.

A mascot, represented by a pair of Ruddy Shelducks, will serve as a creative and relatable character to deliver conservation messages. This approach ensures that information is engaging and accessible, particularly for younger audiences, while also strengthening the cultural and emotional connection to wetlands and birdlife.

The scope of work for this component involves designing multiple sample materials in close consultation with WWF Nepal’s team. Feedback and revisions will be an essential part of the process to ensure accuracy, appeal, and impact. Final designs will only be approved after thorough review and alignment with WWF’s goals for the project.

Through this initiative, WWF Nepal is not only working to protect wetlands and migratory birds but also empowering communities with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to take ownership of conservation. By combining ecological restoration, education, and creative outreach, the project marks an important step in securing the future of wetlands along the Central Asian Flyway.

For more information, visit WWF.