More Than 3 Lakh Birds Migrated This Winter In Kashmir

Srinagar: Over three lakh birds of different species have arrived in Kashmir valley, according to wildlife warden wetlands of Kashmir, Rouf Zargar.

Some of the most sighted birds in valley are Tufted Duck, Gadwall, Brahminy Duck, Garganey, Greylag Goose, Mallard, Common Merganser, Northern Pintail, Common Pochard, Ferruginous Pochard, Red-Crested Pochard, Ruddy Shelduck, Northern Shoveler, Common Teal and Eurasian Wigeon.

Usually every year, approximately 9 lakh birds migrate to the valley from different cold habitats of the world. However, the numbers can be more.

Birds prefer different habitats every year for migration. Therefore, the valley witnesses new species of birds every year. Birds can go any place depending upon the leading flock.

Kashmir is comparatively less cold than their own natural habitat which makes birds to start migrating to the valley in September every year. With decreasing mercury in their own habitat, numbers of birds increases in the valley.

The birds can help in increasing tourism in the valley. Shikara owner Bashir Ahmad said, “Since tourism in valley is not gainging its pace in valley after 2016 turmoil, these migratory birds can attract tourist from across the globe, if tourism department can project them in planned way, and advertise at big level, definitely it will help to boost tourism in valley”.

Courtesy | India Today