Amur Falcon: Conservation Efforts in Nagaland

Understanding the Amur Falcon

The Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis) is a remarkable bird known for its extensive migratory journey. It breeds in Eastern Russia and China, making a long migration across Asia to winter in Southern Africa. This incredible journey spans approximately 22,000 km annually, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of this species.

Significance of Nagaland

Nagaland plays a crucial role in the life cycle of the Amur Falcon. It hosts the largest known roosting site for these birds, with over 1 million individuals recorded. The falcon roosting site is a distinctive and irreplaceable component of Nagaland’s biodiversity, serving as a critical habitat during their migration.

Conservation Efforts in Nagaland

In 2012, graphic videos exposed the mass hunting of Amur Falcons in Nagaland, prompting immediate action. The Indian government swiftly implemented protective measures to safeguard these migratory birds.

Protective Measures

• Forest Protection Force: Deployed to patrol roost areas, seize illegal nets, and release captured falcons.
• Awareness Campaigns: Conducted by the Nagaland Forest Department and NGOs, these campaigns involve community and religious leaders to spread awareness.
• Eco-Clubs: The National Green Corps program facilitated scientific presentations, movie screenings, and storytelling sessions to educate the youth about the importance of the Amur Falcon.

Community Involvement

Community involvement has been pivotal in conservation efforts. A notable event, the ‘Save the Amur Falcon Marathon,’ was held on October 19, 2013, to raise awareness. Continuous patrolling by the Forest Protection Force has been established since the arrival of the falcons, ensuring their safety during the roosting season.

Satellite Tagging and Research

A joint initiative involving the Nagaland Forest Department, Wildlife Institute of India, MME/BirdLife Hungary, and Raptors MOU aims to enhance understanding of the Amur Falcon’s migration. This project involves capturing and tagging three Amur Falcons with satellite transmitters to study their migration patterns and ecological needs.

The insights gained from this research will provide valuable information about the Amur Falcons’ stay in Nagaland and their journey to Africa, further informing conservation strategies.

Conclusion

The conservation efforts in Nagaland have transformed it into the “Falcon Capital of the World.” Through community engagement and strategic protective measures, the survival of the Amur Falcons during their crucial stopover is now more secure than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the migration pattern of the Amur Falcon?
Answer: The Amur Falcon breeds in Eastern Russia and China, migrates across Asia, and winters in Southern Africa, covering about 22,000 km annually.

Q2. Why is Nagaland significant for the Amur Falcon?
Answer: Nagaland hosts the largest known roosting site for Amur Falcons, with over 1 million birds, making it a vital stopover during their migration.

Q3. What conservation efforts are in place for the Amur Falcon in Nagaland?
Answer: Conservation efforts include deploying a Forest Protection Force, conducting awareness campaigns, and establishing Eco-Clubs to educate the community about the species.

Q4. How can local communities contribute to Amur Falcon conservation?
Answer: Local communities can participate in conservation through awareness campaigns, engaging in patrolling efforts, and joining initiatives like the ‘Save the Amur Falcon Marathon.’

Q5. What role does satellite tagging play in Amur Falcon research?
Answer: Satellite tagging helps researchers track the migration patterns and ecological needs of Amur Falcons, providing essential data for conservation strategies.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary breeding ground for the Amur Falcon?
A) Southern Africa
B) Eastern Russia and China
C) North America
D) India
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: Which initiative aims to protect the Amur Falcon in Nagaland?
A) National Green Corps
B) Save the Tiger Project
C) Project Elephant
D) Wildlife Conservation Fund
Correct Answer: A

Question 3: How far does the Amur Falcon migrate annually?
A) 10,000 km
B) 15,000 km
C) 22,000 km
D) 30,000 km
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What event was organized to raise awareness about the Amur Falcon?
A) Birdwatching Festival
B) Save the Amur Falcon Marathon
C) Wildlife Photography Contest
D) Eco-Friendly Fair
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which organizations collaborated for satellite tagging the Amur Falcon?
A) BirdLife International and WWF
B) Nagaland Forest Department and Wildlife Institute of India
C) Greenpeace and The Nature Conservancy
D) Forest Research Institute and Conservation International
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: What is the main purpose of the Forest Protection Force in Nagaland?
A) To promote tourism
B) To protect and patrol roosting areas for Amur Falcons
C) To conduct scientific research
D) To manage public awareness campaigns
Correct Answer: B