Migratory birds become cynosure of alleyes in Panna Tiger Reserve

Panna, MP, Jan 14 (UNI) With the arrival of hundreds of colourful migratory birds, the forest in Panna Tiger Reserve has turned into an important destination for bird louers as well as ornithologists.

Spread over 543 km, the forest is at present home for more than 300 species of birds, who came from across the miles.

The sight of 100 cm tall Black Storks resting at granite rocks in groups is enchanting.

Panna Tiger Reserve Deputy Director A K Nagar said the Black Stork birds are called 'Surmal Laglag' in local language. These birds arrive here with the onset of winter and depart at around March.

Ornithologist Kaustabh Sharma said Black Storks arrive here from Mongolia and make their dwellings at Ken 'gharial' sanctuary near the Ken river as they are fond of consuming fish.

State Wildlife Board member Shyamendra Singh Vinni Raja said a good number of vultures had arrived in the tiger reserve area. These includes King Vulture, Long Build Vulture, White Black Vulture and Egyptian Vulture.

A tourist said several birds were found at this place. However, there was dearth of experts to provide information about birds to amateur bird watchers. This created a lot of trouble.

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