City-based ornithologist and bird watcher Ajay Gadikar said that he has witnessed poaching of migratory birds, especially ducks, near the wetland. "The poaching of migratory birds that come from Siberia to the wetlands in northern India to seek temporary shelter from the harsh weather conditions there can result in reduction of their numbers in the coming year," he said.

Forest department officers claimed that they take stringent action against the poachers. "Under Protection of Migratory birds, it is our duty to protect these precious birds. If officers are not allotted to particular place, we will try to deploy guards to curb poaching," said Chief Conservator of Forest PurushottamDhiman.

He said that he was bird watching near Machal Lake which is 25 km from Indore near Betwa when suddenly he saw two fishermen taking out ducks from the net. "During my recent visits to some wetlands near Indore, I saw poaching of migratory birds at some places. Poaching of migratory birds coming from Siberia to the wetlands in northern India to escape the harsh weather conditions there, can result in reduction of their numbers in the coming year," he said.

"Machal is a perfect example of poaching, as people capture migratory ducks while fishing. I spoke to a poacher and he said that sale depends on weight of the bird. "A 2kg duck is sold for Rs 500 while 3-4 kg duck fetches Rs 750 in nearby hotels," he said.

The ornithologist said that three years back, the forest department has developed Machal area as a bird watching camp but it has been neglected over past two years. The lake falls under irrigation department and migratory birds arrive in winter season, he said.

Wetland near Buranakhedi and Khat-Piplia near Kanadia village sees poaching of migratory ducks with fishing nets laid to catch them.

"Earlier this year, there was reports of migratory bird poaching at YeshwantSagar. The forest department must ensure the migratory birds find safe shelter," said Gadikar.