Srinagar: As spring began early for the second consecutive year, the migratory birds who come from Europe, Siberia, Central Asia, China, and Japan to spend winter in the water bodies of the valley have started leaving the Himalayan region of Kashmir in mid-march.
This winter more than 13 lakh migratory birds visited Kashmir valley, as per concerned officials.
An official said that keeping their centuries-old relationship with Kashmir, these birds fly over continents in flocks and visit Kashmir every year for a moderate winter climate as compared to the coldest areas of the world.
“During October, these birds start the migration from Siberia, China, Philippines, Eastern Europe, and Japan to the valley and stay here for about five to six months”, he said.
“The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has taken up the restoration of wetland programs on priority. Various departments of the Government are working for the restoration of wetlands under their respective jurisdictions”, he added.
Ifshan Dewan, Kashmir’s wildlife warden (wetlands), said the birds start the migration to Kashmir at the end of October and leave the valley in mid-March.
“Some birds are still present in Kashmir wetlands and the departure of birds remains usual like previous years”, she said.
However, as per previous records, the birds leave Kashmir valley in the first week of April.
(KNO)