Amur Falcons roost in Assam's Umrangso, marking spectacular annual migration event

Lakhs of Amur Falcons are currently roosting in the forests of New Tumbung in Umrangso, located in Assam's Dima Hasao district, as well as in the surrounding areas of Northeast India.
 

This annual spectacle peaks in October and the first half of November, drawing both locals and visitors to witness one of the world's longest bird migrations.
 

The Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis) undertakes a journey of over 13,000 kilometers from its breeding grounds in the Amur River basin of eastern Russia and northeast China to wintering grounds in southern Africa. Along their route, these remarkable birds seek temporary rest and food in the forests of northeast India, including Umrangso's 270-hectare oak and pine-covered area. 

Dr. Anwaruddin Choudhury, an ornithologist and mammalogist noted for his work in wildlife conservation across the Northeast, dedicated to monitoring these migrating birds, estimates that more than lakhs of Amur Falcons roost in the Umrangso region each season. 

Speaking about the roosting sites, Dr. Choudhury explained that Umrangso is one of several key resting points for these falcons in the northeast, alongside sites in West Karbi Anglong (Umru and Habang areas), Nagaland’s Wokha and Mokokchung area, and Manipur’s Tamenglong district. 

He emphasised the importance of conserving oak and pine trees in these areas to maintain the natural roosting environment for the birds. Choudhury also urged locals not to disturb or harm these “guests from afar” and encouraged them to protect the trees vital to the falcons' survival during their stopover.

Tuhin Langthasa, Deputy Conservator of Forest (DCF), Dima Hasao Forest West Division, Halflong has taken proactive steps to enhance the protection of these roosting sites. He announced plans to plant additional trees around the falcon roosting areas and has deployed more forest security personnel to monitor and prevent any activities that could disturb the birds. "These falcons play an essential ecological role, and it is our duty to ensure they have a safe stop on their journey," Langthasa stated.

As the Amur Falcon migration peaks, conservationists and forest officials are working closely with local communities to foster awareness about the need to protect these birds and their habitat. Dr. Choudhury remains hopeful that these efforts will not only safeguard the Amur Falcons but also enrich the local ecosystem and promote sustainable tourism, making northeast India a beacon of avian conservation in the region.