Jodbeed Gadhwala Conservation Reserve or simply Jorbeed conservation reserve or Jorbeer is a protected area located in the Bikaner district of Rajasthan, India. It was notified by the Government of Rajasthan on 25 November 2008 under order number P.3(22)/Van/2008. The reserve covers an area of approximately 56.47 square kilometres and is managed by the Rajasthan Forest Department. It was created primarily to conserve declining populations of raptors, especially vultures.[1][2][3][4]
Established over a century ago by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner, the Jorbeer site was originally designated as an official carcass disposal area, intended to be situated at a distance from the royal settlements. It continues to serve as a major animal carcass disposal site, primarily for cattle (including cows and bulls), as well as camels, goats, and sheep. The reserve was officially established on 25 November 2008, to protect traditional vulture feeding grounds and prevent land-use changes and disturbances in the area. It is the third conservation reserve in Rajasthan specifically designated for raptor conservation under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.[5]
Geography
Jodbeed Gadhwala is situated about 14.5 km south-east of Bikaner, accessible via the Bikaner–Napasar–Ladnun Road. The reserve lies within the semi-arid zone of the Thar Desert, characterized by sandy dunes, ephemeral water bodies, and xerophytic shrubland dominated by Prosopis juliflora and other drought-tolerant vegetation.[6]
Biodiversity
Avifauna
The reserve is an important habitat for several species of scavenging and predatory birds.
The vegetation consists mainly of thorny shrubs, seasonal grasses, and herbs that appear briefly after the monsoon season.[8][9]
Conservation and Management
The reserve enjoys legal protection under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.
Regular forest department patrols aim to prevent illegal grazing, woodcutting, and encroachment.
Designated feeding sites known as "vulture restaurants" provide safe carcasses free of harmful veterinary drugs like diclofenac.
Awareness and community outreach programs highlight the ecological role of vultures in disease control and carcass disposal.[10]
Tourism
The reserve attracts ornithologists and birdwatchers, particularly during the winter months (November–February). Guided jeep safaris and shaded hides are available for bird observation. There are no accommodation facilities within the reserve; visits are usually arranged from Bikaner city.[11]
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