IMPHAL, Oct 26:  A senior scientist from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is set to arrive in Tamenglong district, Manipur, early next month to attach satellite transmitters to Amur falcons as part of a study on their migratory patterns. These long-distance migratory birds, known locally as “Akhuaipuina” and slightly smaller than pigeons, have returned in large numbers to the forested area.

Dr. Suresh Kumar, designated as “Scientist-F” at WII in Dehradun, will lead the tagging effort using transmitters imported from the United Kingdom. According to Kh Hitler Singh, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the district, Dr. Suresh plans to assess the health of several selected falcons and will tag two of the healthiest ones.

After tagging, researchers will be able to track the flight patterns and migratory routes of the falcons shortly after their release. The transmitters are expected to last for a year, allowing a comprehensive study of the tagged birds’ entire migratory cycle. In a notable previous instance, a female falcon tagged in 2018 was recorded flying non-stop for over five days, covering 5,700 kilometers to reach Somalia.

Local authorities and animal advocacy groups are also taking measures to protect the falcons in the Zeliangrong-Naga dominated district. The Amur falcons typically arrive in Manipur and parts of Nagaland in early October from their breeding grounds in Northern China and Southeastern Siberia. After a month of roosting, they continue their journey to southern and eastern Africa before returning to their breeding areas.

To promote awareness about the protection of these migratory birds, the forest department, along with local clubs and animal welfare organizations, will hold the “Amur Falcon Festival” in November. Last month, district magistrate L Angshim Dangshawa implemented a ban on air guns to protect the falcons during their roosting period, requiring villagers to surrender their weapons to local authorities.

Animal lovers in Tamenglong have noted that the increased awareness and protection efforts by forest officials and NGOs have led to a significant reduction in hunting incidents. “With love, we have warmly welcomed Amur falcons in our district, and we have observed many flying freely in the skies,” they commented.

A population survey conducted last year in the Chiuluan bamboo forest near the Barak River estimated approximately 141,274 Amur falcons in the area, underscoring the importance of ongoing conservation efforts.