Nagaland
Amur falcons arrive early in Nagaland; number increases
DIMAPUR — Migratory guests, Amur falcon, have arrived early in Nagaland this year, with sightings of the majestic raptors being reported at one of its favourite roosting sites at Aree Old village in Wokha district, in the second week of October.
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Wokha Forest Division and Doyang Plantation Division, Suman Sivachar, told Eastern Mirror that the initial observation of approximately 500 Amur falcons at the roosting site in Aree Old village, has increased to an estimated 5000 as on October 13.
According to the DFO Wokha, majority of the migratory birds are roosting in Aree village and Aree Old village. He also disclosed that the migratory birds have arrived slightly early this year, compared to previous year.
While saying that the number of raptors is expected to increase in the coming days, the DFO also informed that, as of now, the birds are roosting in the Aree village and Aree Old village areas, instead of Pangti village.
However, he clarified that they need to wait and observe during the next couple of days, as “this is just the initial phase of the birds’ arrival.”
The DFO also updated that these birds are migratory in nature and do not have a permanent roosting site, and that their shifting behaviours can be attributed to various factors, including human interference.
However, a comprehensive study has not yet been conducted to determine the precise reasons behind the migratory birds’ shifting of roosting site, he said.
Sivachar shared that the end of October or first week of November is usually considered as the peak season for arrival of these raptors in Nagaland, including Longleng and Niuland districts.
While Amur falcons will make its way to Kiphire and Mon districts as well, their numbers are normally fewer compared to Wokha district, he said.
By the second week of November, these birds will resume its journey to Southern Africa – the final destination.