Three Amur falcons tagged in Manipur completed a record migration to Africa, reaching Somalia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. The study highlights successful conservation efforts, satellite tracking research, and the ecological importance of this long-distance migratory raptor.
In a remarkable display of endurance and navigation, three Amur falcons tagged in Manipur have successfully completed a record transcontinental journey, reaching different parts of Africa within days. Officials confirmed on Friday that the birds—named Ahu, Alang, and Apapang—have been tracked to Somalia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana respectively, marking another milestone in wildlife conservation and scientific research in Northeast India.
The falcons were fitted with satellite transmitters on November 8, 2025, at the Chiuluan roosting site in Manipur’s Tamenglong district. The initiative is part of an ongoing research programme conducted by the state Forest Department in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). The tagging operation involved scientists, forest officials, and local village volunteers working together to ensure safe handling and release of the birds.
According to forest officials, the three raptors completed their journey to Africa in a record time of just nine to ten days. Since then, they have been wintering in their respective destinations. The latest satellite data shared by Dr. R. Suresh Kumar of WII indicates that all three falcons are active and in good health. Ahu is currently located in Somalia, although its movements are largely confined within a limited area. Meanwhile, Apapang has settled in Zimbabwe, and Alang has been tracked in Botswana.
The Amur falcon (Falco amurensis) is widely regarded as one of the most extraordinary migratory birds in the world. Each year, these birds travel an astonishing distance of up to 22,000 kilometres, moving from their breeding grounds in northern China and southeastern Siberia to southern Africa. Their journey includes a long non-stop flight across the Indian Ocean, making it one of the longest overwater migrations among birds.
Locally known as “Akhuaipuina” in Manipur and “Molulem” in Nagaland, the Amur falcons arrive in large numbers in the forested regions of Tamenglong district every October. Villages such as Chiuluan and Guangram serve as critical roosting sites, where thousands of birds gather for several weeks before continuing their journey to Africa.
The importance of these birds extends beyond their migratory marvel. Amur falcons play a crucial ecological role by controlling insect populations, particularly agricultural pests. Their presence contributes significantly to maintaining ecological balance in the regions they inhabit during migration.
To safeguard these migratory visitors, authorities in Tamenglong and neighbouring Noney district enforce strict bans on hunting, trapping, or selling the birds during their seasonal stay. These conservation measures are implemented under the guidance of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and have proven highly effective over the years.
Historically, the region faced a grim reality. Until 2012, thousands of Amur falcons were hunted annually in parts of Northeast India. However, sustained awareness campaigns and community-driven conservation initiatives have transformed the situation. In Nagaland, for instance, bird hunting has dropped to near-zero levels since 2013, showcasing a successful model of grassroots conservation.
The satellite-tagging programme continues to provide valuable insights into the migratory routes and behaviour of these birds. In a previous study, a female falcon tagged in Tamenglong in 2018 flew non-stop for over five days, covering approximately 5,700 kilometres before landing in Somalia—highlighting the species’ incredible stamina.
Adding to conservation awareness, the Forest Department, along with local organisations, hosts the annual Amur Falcon Festival in November. The event attracts nature enthusiasts, researchers, and tourists from across the country, boosting eco-tourism and generating livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Nagaland also plays a crucial role as a stopover site, where flocks of up to 100,000 falcons rest for weeks in districts such as Wokha. The spectacular sight of thousands of birds roosting together has become a symbol of successful conservation and community participation.
Protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, the Amur falcon enjoys legal safeguards, with violations attracting imprisonment of up to three years. Officials stress that continued cooperation between government agencies, scientists, and local communities is essential to maintain the success of conservation efforts.
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The journey of Ahu, Alang, and Apapang not only underscores the resilience of nature but also highlights the impact of coordinated conservation strategies. As these birds continue their seasonal cycle, they serve as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of ecosystems across continents.
