50,000 Migratory Birds Gather at Pampore Wetlands

Suhail Bhat

SRINAGAR, Dec 22: The Chatlam wetland in the Pampore region of South Kashmir is bustling with life, as over 50,000 migratory birds have been observed flocking to the area this winter.
Chatlam is recognized as one of eight wetlands in Kashmir that annually hosts these feathered visitors, who journey thousands of miles from Siberia, Northern Europe, and Central Asia seeking refuge from the severe winters in their original habitats.
Beginning in October, these birds arrive gradually, transforming the Valley into a stunning display of color and sound. By March, all nine wetlands in the region welcome these seasonal travelers, forming a breathtaking scene that lasts for a remarkable six months.
Imtiyaz Ahmad, the Range Officer at the Pampore Wetland, reported that 50,000 migratory birds from various species, including Mallards, Gadwalls, Common Teals, Northern Shovelers, Pintails, Greylag Geese, Eurasian Wigeons, Ruddy Shelducks, Common Pochards, and Red-Crested Pochards, have made their way to Chatlam. “We anticipate that their numbers will continue to grow in the following weeks,” he noted.
Ahmad additionally stated that over 20,000 migratory birds are currently populating the other three Pampore wetlands: Fashkoori, Krunchoo, and Mainibugh. Among these, Chatlam is the largest, covering an area of 852 kanals, while Fashkoori spans 305 kanals, Krunchoo 128 kanals, and Mainibugh 106 kanals.
The yearly influx of migratory birds attracts both bird lovers and local residents. Inhabitants from Pampore and surrounding areas visit the wetlands to observe and photograph these birds.
Mushtaq Ahmad, a local resident, expressed, “I come to this wetland every winter to greet these visitors. Their singing brings me happiness and enhances my spirit.”
Nevertheless, concerns regarding encroachment pose a threat to the wetlands’ future. “The wetland has been diminishing over the years due to encroachment,” he added.
He emphasized the need for government intervention to safeguard these ecologically significant areas to ensure the continued arrival of these birds.
Wildlife authorities are vigilant in their efforts to prevent poaching of these avian visitors. Earlier this month, authorities conducted operations against poachers in Srinagar, where individuals were photographed at Wullar Lake brandishing their 12-bore guns during illegal hunting activities. One suspect was apprehended, and a 12-bore gun along with other poaching equipment was seized from him.