Amur falcons return to Mokokchung after years; welcomed with catapults and guns

Our Correspondent
Mokokchung, Oct. 25 (EMN): Migratory Amur falcons from Siberia, who roost annually in Wokha and Longleng districts in flocks, have been sighted in Mokokchung district after a gap of many years.

However, the raptors were welcomed with catapults and airguns at sight.

On October 25 evening, many people were seen with catapults and airguns trying to shoot down the falcons indiscriminately. The DFO of Mokokchung, Dr. Sentitula, informed Eastern Mirror that the department would be rolling out a circular urging people to protect the migratory birds. Hunting, she reminded, is banned in the district.

She informed that Forest department personnel have been observing the migratory birds since last week to determine whether they are roosting or crossing after being spotted at Alichen, Impur, and Alempang ward.

 “If it is roosting, then it would be a good sign; the birds are returning after it was slaughtered in mass some years ago,” she said.

It may be mentioned that Amur falcons are protected under the Wild Life Protection Act 1972.