Satellite-Tagged Amur Falcon Completes Journey to Somalia-Kenya Border

Chiuluan 2, a satellite-tagged Amur falcon released from Manipur, has reached the Somalia-Kenya border after flying from Maharashtra and stopping in Somalia. The initiative aims to monitor migratory patterns of these birds, which undertake extensive journeys between breeding and winter habitats. The collaborative efforts of local and governmental bodies underline the commitment to conserving these extraordinary raptors.

In a remarkable display of migratory prowess, Chiuluan 2, one of the two satellite-tagged Amur falcons released from Tamenglong, Manipur, has successfully arrived at the Somalia-Kenya border following its journey across the Arabian Sea. Senior scientist R. Suresh Kumar from the Wildlife Institute of India reported that the male falcon began its journey from Guhagar in Maharashtra on a Sunday and reached Somalia by Tuesday evening. As of the recent update on Friday, the falcon was located near the border.

In contrast, Guangram, the female falcon, remains at the initial roosting site in Tamenglong. On November 8, the Manipur Forest Department worked in cooperation with the Wildlife Institute of India and local communities to release both Chiuluan 2 and Guangram after fitting them with satellite transmitters. This initiative is part of a broader effort to monitor these birds’ migratory paths and environmental conditions during their travels.

Amur falcons, recognized as the world’s longest-distance migratory birds, are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. They travel from their breeding grounds in Southeast Russia and Northeast China to their winter habitats in South Africa, covering approximately 20,000 kilometers annually. This long migration includes essential stopovers in Northeast India and Somalia. In India, they typically arrive in October, gathering in areas like Nagaland and Manipur, where they intensively feed before embarking on their continuous flight to Africa in November. They return to their breeding territory from April to May, passing through various regions including Afghanistan and East Asia.

The tagging and observation of Amur falcons in Tamenglong initiated in 2018, with additional birds being tagged in the subsequent year. These efforts have been instrumental in deciphering the migratory behaviors and obstacles faced by these extraordinary creatures. The collaboration between the Manipur Forest Department and local communities exemplifies a strong commitment to the conservation of these raptors and their habitats, illustrated by the successful migration of Chiuluan 2.

The Amur falcon, known locally as ‘Akhuaipuina,’ is noted for its extensive migration patterns, covering great distances between breeding and wintering locations. These migratory birds are vital for maintaining ecological balance and require effective conservation efforts to thrive, as they face numerous challenges during their migratory journey. In Manipur, initiatives have been undertaken to monitor and protect these birds, enhancing understanding of their migratory routes and the environmental challenges they navigate with each season. The satellite tagging of the falcons offers crucial insights into their migratory patterns and the conditions they encounter across their long travels.

The successful journey of Chiuluan 2 from Manipur to the Somalia-Kenya border underscores the importance of conservation efforts for migratory birds. Through satellite tracking initiatives implemented by the Manipur Forest Department and the Wildlife Institute of India, valuable data is being gathered on migratory patterns, informing future conservation practices. The ongoing commitment of local communities to protect these majestic birds is vital in ensuring their survival amidst changing environmental conditions. This story highlights both the wonder of nature and the pressing need for effective conservation measures.

Original Source: www.eastmojo.com