Bhagalpur: With the onset of winter, the sandy banks and calm waters of the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary in Bhagalpur have begun echoing with the calls of migratory birds. Like every year, large numbers of Chakwas, which are known scientifically as Ruddy Shelducks, have reached Bhagalpur after travelling thousands of miles from colder regions of Tibet and Central Asia.
The sight of the birds moving across the Ganga and gathering on its sandy banks has become an attraction for local residents and bird lovers, offering a peaceful and picturesque view of the river’s natural habitat.
Ganga Provides a Suitable Habitat
Environmentalist and bird expert Deepak Kumar Jhunnoo said the Chakwa has become more than just a migratory bird and is now an important part of Bhagalpur’s identity linked to the Ganga and its rich birdlife.
According to him, a large presence of these birds is recorded every year during the migration season in the Ganga within the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary.
He said the river’s relatively calm waters and safe sandy islands provide a favourable habitat for the birds and reflect the richness of the area’s local biodiversity.
Birds Travel from Cold Regions for Winter
These birds are mainly associated with the high plateaus of Central Asia, Tibet and Ladakh. During winter, heavy snowfall and a shortage of food in those regions drive them towards the plains of India, particularly the Ganga basin, after crossing the Himalayas.
The Ganga in Bhagalpur provides them with food such as small snails, aquatic plants and insects.
The arrival of migratory birds such as the Chakwa, along with the presence of Gangetic dolphins, is being seen as an indication of the ecological value of the river ecosystem in the region.
During the early morning and evening, large groups of the birds can be seen taking flight over the river, creating a striking natural spectacle.
Migratory Birds Highlight Eco-Tourism Potential
The growing presence of these birds is not only attracting nature lovers but also strengthening the possibilities for eco-tourism in Bhagalpur.
Local environmentalists say protecting these migratory visitors and preserving their natural habitat along the Ganga is a collective responsibility so that the region’s bird population continues to return every year.
Forest Department Steps Up Patrolling
The Bhagalpur Forest Division has remained alert for the protection of migratory Chakwas and other aquatic life.
Special patrolling is being conducted in the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary. The river turtle and bird conservation teams are regularly monitoring the river channels and sandy islands to prevent any harm to the birds and other wildlife.
Action Against Illegal Hunting
The possibility of illegal hunting of migratory birds increases during the winter season. In view of this, the district administration and Forest Department have adopted a strict approach.
Forest officials have warned that those found setting nets or hunting birds in the diara and riverside areas of the Ganga will face legal action under the Wildlife Protection Act.
Meetings have also been held with local fishermen and boatmen to create awareness about protecting the migratory birds.
Appeal for Responsible Bird Watching
With more nature lovers and tourists visiting the riverbanks, the administration has issued informal guidelines for bird watching.
Local residents have been asked not to go too close to bird flocks or use loudspeakers and firecrackers, as loud noise can disturb the sensitive migratory birds during their stay.
Awareness campaigns are also being conducted in coastal villages by developing local residents as “Bird Friends” to support bird conservation and promote awareness about the protection of migratory species.
