There are many types of wetlands in Nepal, ranging from permanently flowing rivers to seasonal streams, lowland oxbow lakes, high altitude glacial lakes, swamps, marshes, rice paddy fields, reservoirs and ponds (NBS 2002). These are biologically rich habitats supporting a great diversity of organisms. Approximately 25% of the vascular plants of Nepal are thought to be linked to wetland habitats. There is no doubt that wetlands in Nepal are suffering, but there is very little data available on wetland degradation and conservation. A well-defined wetland policy is in draft stage, and although several important wetland sites have been identified, they lack a detailed inventory of their biodiversity. Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is of international importance and is listed as a Ramsar site. A further 11 additional wetland sites have been put forward for inclusion under Ramsar.