TV
Migratory birds across the globe have started their annual journey to Chilika, which is India’s largest water-bird habitat in Odisha, ahead of winter this year.
Migratory birds, mostly from beyond the Himalayas in Northern Eurasia, the Caspian region, Siberia, Kazakhstan, Lake Baikal and the remote areas of Russia and neighbouring countries have started arriving in Chilika before the onset of winter by flying thousands of miles. The scenic beauty of Chilika has been magnified due to the arrival of the winged guests.
The maximum number of migratory birds generally flock Nalabana and Mangalajodi areas. The guest birds have also started arriving in Rambha and Satapada areas.
According to ornithologists, the arrival of the migratory birds to Chilika is not very early this year. Though they usually arrive in the area during the first week of October, their numbers are less this year due to the prevailing hot and humid conditions.
“The migratory bird season in Chilika has already started. The season will continue up to March 2025. Birds of different species have already arrived. However, they are finding it a little bit difficult to settle in Chilika as the water level is currently a bit high,” said Chilika DFO Amlan Nayak.
“Though the migration has already started, it is a bit slow this year,” said Birds’ security volunteer, Hajari Behera.
Local administration, the Forest Department and some local residents have been trying their best to ensure protection measures for the safety and security of the migratory birds.
The Forest Department has divided the Chilika region into five ranges and set up as many as 21 base camps in the vulnerable areas to prevent bird poaching during the season. The department has also made patrolling arrangements in the lake to keep a strict vigil on poaching activities. Apart from more than 100 employees of the department, workers of local Pakhi Surakhya Samiti have also been appointed for the protection of the migratory birds.
“As many as two to three local youths will be appointed as watchers in each camp. They will stay in the camp, gather information and do patrolling,” said Chilika Wildlife DFO Amlan Nayak.
“The patrolling conducted by the wildlife department is not enough as poaching activities by the poachers have been increasing every year. The department should intensify patrolling activities and take measures to create awareness among the local people,” said Manas Kumar Pradhan, a bird lover.
Notably, food availability is one of the most important factors that influence bird migration to Chilika. The scarcity of food in their native habitats likely compels these birds to embark on long journeys in search of suitable wetlands, with Chilika being one of their preferred destinations.
The migratory birds that arrive at Chilika are well-adapted to the local climate. However, they begin their homeward journey as the temperature reaches around 40°C.
