Three Amur falcons tagged with satellite transmitters in Manipur are now spending their winter migration period across three African countries. The birds, named Ahu, Alang and Apapang, were fitted with transmitters in November by the Manipur Forest Department in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India. They were released from the Chiuluan roosting site in Tamenglong district after tagging. The exercise is part of a wider effort to study the species’ long-distance migration and support conservation planning.
Tagging and Release in Manipur
- The three falcons were tagged in November last year.
- They were released from Chiuluan roosting site in Tamenglong district.
- The tagging was done jointly by the Manipur Forest Department and the Wildlife Institute of India.
Rapid Journey to Africa
- The birds reached Africa in about nine to ten days after leaving Manipur.
- This is considered a rapid migration for a long-distance migratory raptor.
- The Amur falcon’s route from Northeast India to southern Africa is among the most remarkable bird migrations.
Current Locations and Health Status
- Latest satellite data show that all three birds are active and healthy.
- Ahu is currently in Somalia.
- Apapang is in Zimbabwe, while Alang is in Botswana.
- Earlier concerns over Ahu’s movement have eased after recent tracking showed normal local movement.
Conservation Significance
- The tracking exercise helps map migratory routes and behaviour.
- It also supports identification of conservation needs across the species’ flyway.
- Continued monitoring is expected to strengthen protection efforts for Amur falcons in the region.