What rare bird species was sighted for the first time in Kashmir's Wular Lake?

The Tundra-bean-goose, typically from Siberia, was sighted for the first time in Wular Lake.

Which wetlands in Kashmir attract the largest number of migratory birds?

Hokersar wetland in Srinagar attracts the highest number of migratory birds, with Wular Lake also hosting hundreds of thousands.

When do migratory birds arrive in Kashmir and when do they depart?

Migratory birds typically arrive in Kashmir between October and April, feeding during winter before migrating back for breeding in March.

Home / Environment / Kashmir's Skies: Rare Tundra-bean-goose Arrives!

Kashmir's Skies: Rare Tundra-bean-goose Arrives!

9 Feb

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Summary

First-time visitor Tundra-bean-goose documented in Wular Lake.
Short-eared owls from Belgium sighted in greater numbers.
Lakhs of migratory birds arrive annually from colder global regions.

Kashmir's Skies: Rare Tundra-bean-goose Arrives!

Kashmir's wetlands have become a vibrant spectacle this winter with the arrival of numerous migratory birds, including a notable first-time visitor. The Tundra-bean-goose, native to Siberia, has been documented in North Kashmir's Wular Lake, marking a significant event in the region's avian records. This species typically originates from arctic regions.

Alongside this rarity, short-eared owls, usually rarely seen, have been sighted in considerable numbers in Hokersar, Srinagar's primary wetland. These owls are believed to have journeyed from Belgium. Officials and bird enthusiasts report that hundreds of thousands of birds have arrived, undertaking extensive journeys from colder parts of the world to spend their winter in Kashmir's lakes and wetlands.

Conservation efforts have contributed to attracting rare species like the Falcated duck and White-tailed eagle to Wular Lake, a vital habitat for waterfowl. Hokersar wetland, a crucial stopover point, is experiencing a surge in arrivals, with numbers reaching up to 13 lakh birds in previous winters. The recent snowfall has further boosted wetland water levels, encouraging this increased presence.