Amur Falcon

Amur Falcon is a small migratory raptor known for one of the longest and most remarkable migration journeys in the bird world.

It was recently highlighted by the Union Environment Minister for its return migration, showcasing successful community-led conservation efforts in Manipur.

About Amur Falcon

Local Name

In Manipur, it is locally known as:

• “Kahuaipuina”

Migration Pattern

Long-Distance Migrant

Amur Falcon undertakes an extraordinary journey:

• Breeding grounds: Eastern Russia and China (Far East Asia)

• Wintering grounds: Southern Africa

• Route: Passes through India during migration

Record Migration

• Total distance: ~22,000 km

• Known for: Longest sea crossing among raptors

“The Amur Falcon is a symbol of intercontinental ecological connectivity.”

Route Through India

The bird passes through:

• Nagaland

• Manipur

These states act as:

• Critical stopover sites

• Feeding and resting zones

Feeding Behaviour

Amur Falcon feeds mainly on:

• Flying insects such as dragonflies

Interestingly:

• Dragonflies also follow long migratory routes over the Arabian Sea

Ecological Significance

1. Indicator Species

Reflects:

• Health of insect populations

• Wetland and grassland ecosystems

2. Cross-Continental Link

Connects ecosystems across:

• Asia

• Indian subcontinent

• Africa

Conservation Status

IUCN Status

• Least Concern

Wildlife Protection Status

In India:

• Listed under Schedule I of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

Meaning:

• Highest level of legal protection

Conservation Success in India

Community-Led Protection

In states like Manipur and Nagaland:

• Villages banned hunting of Amur Falcons

• Awareness campaigns were conducted

• Roosting sites were protected

Outcome

• Significant recovery of migratory population safety

• India became a model for community-based bird conservation

Threats (Earlier)

• Hunting during migration

• Habitat disturbance at stopover sites

• Illegal trapping

Importance of Conservation Efforts

Protecting Amur Falcon ensures:

• Biodiversity conservation

• Protection of migratory corridors

• Strengthening of eco-tourism potential in Northeast India

Conclusion

Amur Falcon is a globally significant migratory bird whose successful conservation in Manipur and Nagaland highlights the power of community participation in wildlife protection and India’s role in safeguarding transcontinental biodiversity.