Naxal-infested valley home to migratory birds

Mirzapur, Nov 3 (UNI) The naxal-infested Kaimur valley in the Mirzapur and Sonebhadra districts of Uttar Pradesh has become the new winter habitat of migratory birds.

Migratory birds from Europe, Tibet, Russia, Mongolia, Australia and other countries are arriving in droves for their annual winter stay.

The Kaimur and Vindhya valleys are whirring with the cacophony of chirping, which present their own melody for wildlife lovers and general people, alike.

Meanwhile, forest department sources said lack of funds was coming in the way of providing adequate security from hunters to these magnificent winged creatures.

The majestic cranes, 'red listed' by the International Union for Conservation and Natural Resources, are coming in thousands to the region this year.

Experts say birds follow their own social system and the most experienced always lead the flock during flight.

However, when they return after three to four months' winter stay, the children are kept at the front and are guided by the older birds.

This is to teach the baby birds the path and return during subsequent migratory seasons, experts added.

District forest officer N Ravindra said migratory birds comprise about 300 species found in the country.

These birds take 5-20 days to cover the distance of their winter destination. Cranes cover a distance of almost 500 km a day without any halt.

UNI