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Migratory Birds returns to Assam

Migratory Birds returns to Assam

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Migratory Birds

Discover the enchanting migratory birds arriving in Assam this winter, enhancing the state’s biodiversity and tourism potential. Join Aaranyak‘s initiatives to safeguard these winged visitors and explore the crucial role birds play in ecosystems.

As winter descends upon Assam, bringing a gentle chill to the air, it’s not just the locals who feel the change; our feathered friends from far-flung corners of the globe begin to flock to the state’s verdant forests and tranquil wetlands. With a flourish, these migratory birds grace Assam’s landscape, enhancing the region’s biodiversity and transforming it into a veritable paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

A Flourish of Biodiversity

As the migratory birds arrive, they bring not only beauty but also a wealth of ecological benefits that are as good as gold to Assam’s natural heritage. The rich biodiversity, bolstered by these winged visitors, adds considerable allure to the state, making it a prime destination for tourists eager to witness nature’s wonders. The call for action isn’t just about appreciating their presence; it’s about safeguarding these avian guests during their winter sojourn.

Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar of Aaranyak
Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar of Aaranyak

Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, the secretary general and CEO of Aaranyak, a biodiversity conservation organisation, has emphasised in an interview to Assam Tribune on the collective responsibility to protect these guests. “Migratory birds are valued visitors, and we must all do our bit to ensure their safety during their stay in our beautiful state,” he said. “It’s vital that the people of Assam remain sensitive to the protection of the natural areas that attract these birds.”

Events to Celebrate Our Avian Friends

From November 2024, Aaranyak will be at the forefront of birdwatching activities across Assam, including counts of these charming visitors. With events planned in various locales, bird lovers will have ample opportunity to appreciate the remarkable variety of species that call Assam home during winter.

Udayan Borthakur, a senior scientist at Aaranyak, explained the significance of Assam’s biodiversity, stating, “Assam is home to over 900 of the 1,377 bird species recorded in India. Our unique habitat and altitude variation, along with our position on two major migratory flyways, explain our diverse bird populations.”

The Central Asian and East Asian-Australasian flyways converge over Assam, transforming it into a critical stopover for countless migratory species, making it a jewel in the crown of avian biodiversity.

Research and Community Engagement

Beyond mere appreciation, Aaranyak is actively engaged in crucial ecological research on threatened species, including the white-winged wood duck and the Bengal florican. “We’ve even pioneered genetic research on the critically endangered white-bellied heron,” added Borthakur, highlighting the organisation’s dedication to conservation.

Birdwatching is not just a pastime for Aaranyak; it serves as a bridge to connect people with nature, fostering citizen-science initiatives that encourage local involvement. The contributions from Aaranyak’s biologists and volunteers have led to the development of comprehensive checklists for Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Assam, enriching our understanding of the region’s avian life.

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The Vital Role of Birds in Ecosystems

Karishma Sharma Chamlagain, a researcher at Aaranyak, elaborated on the indispensable role that birds play in ecosystems. “Birds are critical agents for essential ecosystem services, such as pollination, seed dispersal, pest control, and nutrient cycling,” she explained. Migratory birds, in particular, act as conduits between ecosystems, transporting genetic material across vast distances and enriching habitats far from their breeding grounds.

Yet, it’s not all rosy in the garden. Chamlagain pointed out the numerous threats facing these feathered wonders, including habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. “Protecting migratory birds is not just about preserving biodiversity; it’s also crucial for maintaining ecosystem services that benefit us all,” she warned.

Conclusion

As winter approaches and Assam’s forests and wetlands come alive with the flutter of wings, it’s a timely reminder for us all: the beauty of nature is fleeting and must be cherished. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply a lover of the great outdoors, let’s roll up our sleeves and do our part to protect these splendid visitors. After all, as the old saying goes, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush”—but in Assam, we’d rather have them both!

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