Maidika. 07/12/04; Tibet Autonomous Region; 43,496 ha; 31°11'55"N 092°40'51"E. A vast swamp meadow above 4,900 meters, with permanent and seasonal pools and lakes in the headwater region of the Maidicangbu, a tributary stream of the Lhasa River. The site, one of the "highest altitude wetlands with the coexistence of man and nature", performs major hydrological functions such as control of soil erosion, prevention of seasonal floods, interception of sediment from the upper stream and formation of a productive wetland with meadows and swamps. Maidika plays a critical role as a staging and breeding habitat for migratory waterfowl, including the vulnerable Black-necked Crane Grus nigricollis. The endangered Snow Leopard Panthera uncia and the endangered Saker Falcon Falco cherrug can be found at the site. This large wetland has an important role in providing water for residents as well as regulating the regional climate of the Lhasa River basin. The lands are mostly state-owned and partly contracted to local Tibetans as pastures for increasing numbers of livestock each year. Ramsar site No.1438. Most recent RIS information: 2012