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Species in News: Amur Falcon
Context:
Tamenglong district in Manipur has immediately banned the hunting, killing, and selling of Amur falcons, locally called ‘Kahuaipuina,’ to protect these migratory birds that arrive in October on their way to South Africa.
More on News:
- The ban coincides with the expected arrival of thousands of Amur falcons from Northern China, Eastern Mongolia, and far East Russia in early October.
- The District Magistrate has ordered air gun owners to deposit their weapons at village authority offices until the last flock leaves.
- Violations of the ban will be prosecuted under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, specifically sections 50 and 51.
About Amur Falcon:
- It is a small migratory raptor known for its remarkable long-distance migration from East Asian breeding grounds to wintering Southern African sites.
- Scientific Name: Falco Amurensis
- Family: Falconidae
- IUCN Status: Least Concern
- It is also protected under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and included under its Schedule IV.
- Distribution: It breeds in southeastern Siberia and northern China, then migrates in large flocks across India and over the Arabian Sea to winter in southern and East Africa.
- Habitat: In Asia, Amur falcons prefer open woodlands and marshes. They are found in open forests and savannah grasslands in Africa, often roosting in tall trees near open areas.
- Diet: Primarily feeds on dragonflies that migrate alongside also eat frogs, small mammals, and birds.
- Predators: Natural predators include owls and larger raptors. They are also susceptible to lice infestations, particularly in females and juveniles.
- Human-Related Risks: Illegal hunting, habitat loss, changing climates, and pesticide use.
- Conservation Efforts: Since 2016, a conservation program has been underway, including tagging birds with radio transmitters to track migration routes. Plans are in place to tag two additional birds this year.
- Community Engagement: The district conducts regular patrols, awareness programs, and an annual ‘Amur Falcon’ festival to promote conservation.
