By The Editor
During autumn season when weather starts becoming cold many birds from northern region like South China and other places begin to gather in huge flocks and prepare to migrate to the warmer southern parts of the world in search of food and comfort. Some birds migrate only short distances and others fly great distances. Ornithologists observe that during migration birds travel definite routes known as flyways and follow their leaders till they reach their destinations. Some fly non-stop for long distances but others take rest for some days and then continue their flight. Some wild birds have long lives and most are killed by enemies, diseases and accidents which occur during their journey like collisions with lighthouses, aeroplanes, tall buildings, bridges and monuments. In spite of scientific studies about their migratory habits yet scientists cannot fully understand how they find their way to safe distance and back to their original habitat. The only probability is attributed to instinct and their deep sense for survival. People should respect these beautiful winged-creatures and are cautioned not to wantonly kill them either for pleasure and sport or for eating.
During late autumn and early winter birds fly to the warm southern regions and pass through some areas of Ri Bhoi district. After travelling for long distances some take rest in some convenient and safe places like Marngar Lake at Umden where there are enough fishes to sustain them. People living near the beautiful lake are accustomed to these beautiful visitors and welcome them. The place is becoming a scenic spot and quite many tourists visit it every year. In neighbouring state of Assam adjacent to Ri Bhoi district and West Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya the Amur Falcon birds pass through every year en route over Arabian sea to warm southern and eastern Africa and halt for rest and shelter. Forest department of Assam welcomed these winged birds at New Tumbung in Umrangso by arranging programme in association with North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) on October 29. During the function, Chief Executive Member (CEM) Debolal Gorlosa said that every year these majestic birds used to take rest at Umrangso during October and November before resuming their journey to the warm zones of Africa and passing over Arabian sea. To create awareness among public for protection and safeguarding of birds NCHAC has organized a mega event, Falcon Festival at the Golf Course few kilometers away from roosting site where renowned artistes are invited drawing large number of tourists.
Falcon Festival is scheduled for three days on December 15,16 and 17. NCHAC Chairperson Ranu Langthasa urged the people to preserve and maintain the beauty of the region by cooperating with nature. Committee for preservation of falcon birds has been formed with local people and local Member of Autonomous Council (MAC), Umrangso Constituency, Joysing Durong as its chairman. Earlier people used to kill these Amur falcon birds as local sport but now they are becoming aware of their value to environment and hence to be protected and preserved.