Migratory birds overstay in Hirakud reservoir

Sambalpur, Jun 16(UNI) Global warming seems to have an effect on the migratory birds as the bifeathered animals from Siberia and Himalaya have extended their sojourn in Hirakud reservoir for two months.

Divisional forest officer (DFO) at Sambalpur P K Jha observed that a good number of migratory birds have stayed up to the middle of May this year. The winged guests, around 50 thousand of different species, ensconced themselves in the reservoir at the outset of winter. Usually, they stay for four months, that is, till the end of February and leave by first week of March.

'' This is totally a new thing . But we are yet to ascertain any cause behind it '' Mr Jha said.

He rued that ornithologists hardly come to study the bahaviour of birds at Hirakud, unlike Chilika. Even the Sambalpur University, apart from publishing a book containing photographs of a few migratory species years back, have not showed their interest in this regard.

On the other hand, the birds' overstaying has spurred curiosity among nature lovers and wildlife officers alike.

" We are trying to find out the cause behind such change'' the DFO said. It is probable that a safe living condition and abundant food supply alter the visitors' itinerary.

UNI XC-BD KK RN1754