Two Amur Falcons complete epic 5,000 km non-stop odyssey to Somalia

In a remarkable display of endurance, two of the three Amur falcons tagged by wildlife researchers in Manipur have successfully completed an astonishing non-stop journey of nearly 5,000 kilometres to Somalia. The birds Apapang, an adult male; Alang, a young female; and Ahu, an adult female, were equipped with satellite tags as part of the Manipur Amur Falcon Tracking Project, initiated by the Wildlife Institute of India.

A Journey That Began in Manipur

The tracking effort began on 11 November 2025, when the falcons were tagged in the lush forests of Manipur. Their flight paths have been closely monitored ever since. Apapang was the first to reach Somalia after an extraordinary nonstop flight of around 3,100 kilometres from central India across the Arabian Sea, completing the oceanic stretch in roughly 76 hours. Alang soon followed, touching down safely in Somalia. Meanwhile, Ahu is reported to be rapidly approaching her destination.

Global Fascination With the Falcons

The incredible migration has drawn international attention. Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary of Tamil Nadu’s Environment, Climate Change & Forests Department, shared updates on X (formerly Twitter), noting the worldwide interest. “Three Amurs, one breathtaking migration and a million people watching in awe,” she wrote, capturing the sense of wonder surrounding the birds’ journey.

A Conservation Success Story

Amur falcons, weighing barely 150 grams, undertake one of the longest continuous flights of any bird species. Their stopovers in Manipur and Nagaland are crucial for feeding on swarming termites, helping them accumulate vital energy. Once heavily hunted in the region, the falcons are now protected through strong community-led conservation initiatives.

The success of this tracking project showcases not only the extraordinary resilience of the Amur falcon but also the power of dedicated conservation and cross-border cooperation in safeguarding migratory wildlife.