Imphal: Two satellite-tagged Amur Falcons, Apapang and Alang, have begun their southward migration after leaving their breeding grounds on October 10, covering more than 1,200 km so far. Their arrival in Northeast India has prompted fresh conservation measures to protect the migratory birds during their seasonal stay.
Tamenglong District Magistrate Dr L. Angshim Dangshawa issued a prohibitory order on October 14, banning the hunting, trapping, killing and sale of Amur Falcons in the district.
The order, issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, aims to safeguard the birds during their roosting period. The Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis), locally known as “Kahuaipuina” or “Akhuaipuina”, is protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Air guns to be deposited by October 20
As part of the conservation drive, the district administration has directed residents of 35 identified roosting and neighbouring villages to deposit their air guns with their respective Village Authorities by October 20.
The villages covered by the order include Chiuluan, Khangchiuluan, Duigailong and Tamenglong Town. The deposited weapons will remain in safe custody until November 30, 2026.
The prohibitory order also restricts the use of air guns, catapults, firearms and other equipment for hunting the migratory birds.
Village Authorities have been instructed to submit reports on the collection of weapons to the District Magistrate’s office by October 22.
The order warns that violations will invite legal action under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
The Superintendent of Police, Divisional Forest Officer, Sub-Divisional Magistrates and other concerned officials have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the conservation measures.
Amur Falcons embark on an extraordinary migration
Amur Falcons undertake a remarkable annual migration from their breeding grounds in southeastern Siberia and northern China to wintering sites in southern and eastern Africa.
During their southward journey, the birds pass through parts of China, Laos, Vietnam and Myanmar before reaching Northeast India, generally in October and November.
From the region, large flocks cross the Arabian Sea to reach their wintering grounds in Africa.
The annual arrival of the falcons makes the protection of their roosting sites particularly important. The measures introduced in Tamenglong are aimed at preventing hunting and ensuring safer conditions for the birds during their passage through the region.