Pala Wetland is the largest natural wetland in the state of Mizoram. The Site includes a relatively deep lake (over 16 metres deep on average) and its surrounding forest catchment area which climbs to almost 600m above sea level. The wetland supports a rich diversity of animal species, including at least seven mammals, 222 birds, 11 amphibians and 21 reptiles. The low-lying marshy areas within the wetland provide excellent habitat for many herbivores such as sambar deer (Cervus unicolor), wild pig (Sus scrofa) and barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak). Various species of primate also inhabit the wetland, such as the endangered Hoolock gibbon (Hoolock hoolock) and Phayre’s leaf monkey (Trachypithecus phayrei). Pala Wetland is revered by the local Mara people and has a deep connection with their history. The wetland is the major source of freshwater and fish for the villages at its fringe and also the major source of irrigation water for wet rice cultivation, horticulture and other forms of agriculture. Although classified as a Wetland Reserve by the national authorities, the Site is threatened by the construction of roads and railroads, hunting and collecting of land animals, illegal logging and wood harvesting. However, a management plan is being implemented to mitigate these threats.