The wildlife department carried out a census, which revealed the significant increase in bird arrivals, credited to the efforts made to restore and revitalise the wetlands
By:
Kimberly Rodrigues
According to a senior authorities from the Wildlife department, the wetlands of Kashmir were checked out by a record-breaking 13 to 14 lakh birds from Eastern Europe and Central Asia this winter season.
The wildlife department carried out a census, which revealed the significant increase in bird arrivals, credited to the efforts made to restore and revitalise the wetlands, which function as the winter season environment for these feathered visitors.
“We have seen a remarkable increase in the number of certain species of birds and the results are encouraging, especially with regard to the areas that used to be the primary habitats of these migratory birds, such as Hokersar, Hygam, and Shallabugh,” Chief Wildlife Warden Rashid Naqash said.
The authorities reported that around 13 to 14 lakh migratory birds went to the wetlands of Kashmir, consisting of both secured locations under the jurisdiction of the wildlife department and those outside it.
“If we compare this number to the previous years — the last three to four decades — this is the highest recorded number,” Naqash included.
Most of the birds identified at the wetlands consisted of ducks, waders, and water birds.
The officer included that the Wullar Conservation Management Authority had actually carried out good steps to improve the environment by restoring the greatly silted zones, hence drawing a considerable variety of migratory birds.
According to the authorities, Wullar was when understood to be among the most substantial locations for hosting a big population of migratory birds.
However, this year experienced the return of birds that utilized to regular the wetlands or the Wullar lake 30 to 40 years back, consisting of long-tailed ducks and skimmers that hadn’t been seen in years.
When questioned about the connection in between the Russia-Ukraine war and the boost in bird visitors, Naqash specified that there was no uncommon pattern in the birds’ arrival or departure. “Regarding the timing of their arrival or departure, it seems quite normal in our wetlands. Any theory on a good number of bird arrivals needs to be supported with solid scientific data,” he said.
According to a variety officer (lakes) Sajid Farooq, the Wildlife department has actually developed a five-year program to restore the wetlands.
Farooq specified, “In protected wetlands, we have taken different measures for rejuvenation, such as restoration of breaches etc., so that the migratory birds that visit the wetlands during the winter months get a conducive atmosphere.”
He included that field staff starts upkeep operate in March to prepare the environment prior to the arrival of migratory birds.
Farooq likewise said the department is punishing poaching to secure the birds. The Wildlife Act of India has actually prohibited poaching, and control spaces are established at every variety. The forest security force likewise aids with patrolling. The department has actually taken 8 to 10 weapons and signed up an equivalent variety of FIRs this year.
(With inputs from PTI)
