The Central Asian Flyway is an extensive migratory route stretching from the northern breeding grounds in Siberia and Northern Europe to the wintering grounds in the Indian subcontinent and parts of Africa. This pathway is crucial for numerous bird species that rely on it during their annual migrations.
Located near Chennai in southeastern India, Kelambakkam serves as a significant stopover for various wader species. On March 25, 2024, a noteworthy congregation of migratory waders was observed at the Kelambakkam-Covelong brackish water system, as these birds prepared for their return to northern breeding grounds.
This event highlights the critical nature of habitats along the Central Asian Flyway, which provide essential resources for birds to rest and refuel. Such stopover sites are vital for their survival during migratory journeys.
The geographical spread of the Central Asian Flyway includes a variety of ecosystems, from the Arctic tundra of Siberia to the wetlands and estuaries of South Asia, extending further to the savannahs and forests of Africa. Each ecosystem offers unique habitats that are crucial for the survival of migratory birds during their journeys.
Kelambakkam’s role within this flyway underscores the interconnectedness of global ecosystems. The dependence of migratory birds on a network of habitats across continents is evident. Species such as the common redshank, marsh sandpiper, common greenshank, curlew sandpiper, and stints have been observed in this region, demonstrating the global nature of bird migration.
The presence of these migratory waders in Kelambakkam provides valuable data for understanding the geography of the Central Asian Flyway and the critical stopover sites necessary for sustaining migratory bird populations. It serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect and preserve wetlands and other key habitats that support biodiversity and ecological balance.
Q1. What is the Central Asian Flyway?
Answer: The Central Asian Flyway is a migratory route for birds, extending from Siberia and Northern Europe to the Indian subcontinent and parts of Africa, essential for many migratory species.
Q2. Why is Kelambakkam important for migratory birds?
Answer: Kelambakkam is a critical stopover for migratory waders, providing essential resting and refueling resources during their long journeys to breeding grounds.
Q3. What types of ecosystems are found along the Central Asian Flyway?
Answer: The flyway encompasses diverse ecosystems, including Arctic tundra, wetlands, estuaries, savannahs, and forests, each supporting various migratory bird species.
Q4. How does migration affect biodiversity?
Answer: Migration supports biodiversity by connecting different ecosystems and facilitating the survival of species that depend on various habitats throughout their journey.
Q5. What conservation measures are needed for migratory bird habitats?
Answer: Protecting and preserving wetlands and critical habitats are vital for supporting migratory birds, ensuring their survival and maintaining ecological balance.
Question 1: What is the primary significance of the Central Asian Flyway?
A) It is a breeding ground for birds.
B) It serves as a migratory route for various bird species.
C) It is solely located in Africa.
D) It is a conservation area only.
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which species is commonly found at Kelambakkam during migration?
A) Kingfisher
B) Common redshank
C) Sparrow
D) Pigeon
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What role does Kelambakkam play in the migratory patterns of birds?
A) It is a breeding site.
B) It is a feeding ground.
C) It serves as a stopover site.
D) It has no significance.
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: Why is the conservation of wetlands essential for migratory birds?
A) They are only important in winter.
B) They provide necessary resources for resting and refueling.
C) They are breeding grounds.
D) They have no ecological significance.
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What types of ecosystems does the Central Asian Flyway include?
A) Only forests
B) Only tundra
C) A variety of ecosystems including wetlands and savannahs
D) Only urban areas
Correct Answer: C
Kutos : AI Assistant!
