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Birds Arrive Early: Ujani Beckons Migratory Visitors
14 Oct
Summary
- Migratory birds arrived early at Ujani due to water shortages in smaller wetlands.
- 82.06% live storage recorded in Ujani reservoir this year.
- Ujani wetland project aims to designate it as a wetland of international importance.
Migratory birds have arrived earlier than usual at the Ujani backwaters, situated along the Pune and Solapur districts' border. Researchers attribute this early migration to potential water scarcity in smaller wetlands surrounding the Ujani reservoir. The reservoir itself currently maintains 82.06% live storage, according to the water resources department.
Wildlife researchers have already documented species such as Osprey, Western Marsh Harrier, Common Greenshank, Spotted Redshank, European Rollers, and Blue-cheeked bee-eaters. These passage migrants utilize suitable habitats like Ujani during their extensive journeys. The early presence of these birds is a recurring pattern observed this year.
An initiative by the Wildlife Research and Conservation Society (WRCS) in collaboration with the Maharashtra forest department, ongoing since 2023, aims to monitor waterbirds and propose Ujani for designation as a Ramsar site. This international recognition would underscore its importance as a wetland of global significance.
Annually, millions of migratory birds travel thousands of kilometers from regions like Siberia and Europe to Indian wetlands. Ujani provides essential feeding and resting grounds, with its shallow shorelines and mudflats offering abundant food sources. Changes in rainfall and water levels directly impact these crucial habitats and influence the timing of bird congregations.
