Amur Falcon | 23 Sep 2024

Source: IE

Recently, the Tamenglong district administration in Manipur imposed an immediate ban on hunting, catching, killing, and selling Amur falcons (Falco amurensis) in preparation for their arrival.

• About Amur Falcons:  
  • They are small and agile birds (raptors) locally known as ‘Kahuaipuina’ in Manipur and ‘Molulem’ in Nagaland (Amur Falcon capital of the world). 
  • Their distinctive features include dark plumage, white wing linings, and reddish-orange eyes and feet. 
  • Migration: 
    • They migrate from Northern China, Eastern Mongolia, and Far East Russia to South Africa, covering a distance of approximately 22,000 kilometres and passing through India. 
  • Feeding: They are insectivorous but may also consume small vertebrates. 
  • Threat: 
    • They face threats from habitat loss, hunting, and illegal trapping. 
  • Conservation Program: 
    • In 2016, Manipur tagged Amur falcons with radio transmitters to monitor their migration routes. 
    • An annual ‘Amur Falcon Festival’ is held in Tamenglong district to raise awareness and celebrate these birds. 
  • Legal Protection: 
    • IUCN Red List- Least Concern 
    • Convention on Migratory Species (CMS): Appendix II 
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule IV

Read More: Amur Falcon - Drishti IAS