In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing our understanding of migratory birds, a senior scientist from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is set to tag satellite transmitters on Amur falcons in Manipur’s Tamenglong district. This project, scheduled to commence in early November, marks an important step in studying the migratory patterns of these remarkable raptors, which are crucial to the local ecosystem.
Understanding the Amur Falcon
Amur falcons (Falco amurensis) are small migratory birds known for their incredible long-distance flights. Every year, these birds arrive in large numbers in Tamenglong district, commonly referred to as ‘Akhuaipuina’ or ‘Kahoipuina’ by the local population. Their arrival is part of an annual migration from their breeding grounds in Northern China and South-Eastern Siberia, making their presence a major ecological event.
These falcons are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, classified under Schedule IV, which ensures their conservation and safeguards their habitats. The study of their migratory routes is vital, as it not only helps in understanding their behavior but also in preserving their migratory paths and wintering grounds.
The Tagging Initiative
The upcoming tagging initiative will be led by Dr. Suresh Kumar, a scientist from WII based in Dehradun. He will arrive in Tamenglong in the first week of November to begin the process of tagging the falcons. The transmitters for this study have been imported from the United Kingdom and are designed to provide real-time data on the flight patterns of these birds.
Dr. Kumar stated that the team will first assess the health conditions of a few Amur falcons before selecting the two healthiest individuals for tagging. Once tagged, the transmitters will allow researchers to monitor the flight patterns and migratory routes of the birds. With a lifespan of one year, these devices will enable scientists to track the complete migratory cycle of the tagged falcons.
Previous Successful Tracking
The initiative is inspired by previous successes in tracking Amur falcons. For instance, a female falcon tagged in Tamenglong in 2018 made an extraordinary journey to Somalia, covering a distance of approximately 5,700 kilometers in just five days and eight hours. Such data not only sheds light on the capabilities of these birds but also highlights the importance of conserving their migratory routes.
Migration Patterns
Amur falcons are known to arrive in Manipur, particularly in Tamenglong, during the first and second weeks of October. After a brief period of roosting, which lasts about a month, they embark on their journey toward the southern and eastern parts of Africa, where they spend the winter before returning to their breeding grounds in spring. The ability to track these migrations will provide invaluable insights into their behavior and help develop strategies for their conservation.
Promoting Environmental Consciousness
In addition to the scientific aspect of the project, the Tamenglong district’s Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Kh Hitler Singh, emphasized the importance of fostering environmental consciousness. To support this initiative, the forest department, in collaboration with local clubs and animal lovers’ groups, will conduct the annual ‘Amur Falcon Festival’ in early November. This festival aims to raise awareness about the significance of migratory birds and the need for their protection.
The initiative to tag satellite transmitters on Amur falcons in Manipur’s Tamenglong district represents a major stride in avian research and conservation efforts. By closely monitoring these remarkable birds, scientists hope to gather crucial data that will enhance our understanding of their migratory routes and behaviors. The combined efforts of the WII, local authorities, and the community through events like the Amur Falcon Festival aim to foster a deeper appreciation for these migratory raptors and promote their conservation.
