Amur falcons have begun arriving in Umrangso in Assam’s Dima Hasao district, bringing renewed attention to birdwatching, conservation and wildlife tourism as forest officials strengthen protection during the migratory birds’ seasonal stay.
The falcons arrive in the region each year as winter sets in after travelling from breeding grounds in East Asia to wintering areas in southern Africa. They are expected to remain in Umrangso until December before continuing their migration.
The Dima Hasao forest department has stepped up measures to protect the birds while they are in the region. The falcons use the stopover to feed on insects and build the energy reserves needed for the next stage of their journey, which includes crossing the Arabian Sea to reach southern Africa.
Amur falcons breed in parts of eastern Asia, including northern China and southeastern Russia. Their migration route takes them through northeastern India, making the region an important seasonal passage for the species. The annual congregation in Umrangso has attracted birdwatchers, wildlife photographers and tourists interested in observing the birds.
The arrival has also increased attention on Dima Hasao’s ecotourism potential. The Amur Falcon Festival, organised in Umrangso, highlights the district’s biodiversity, natural landscapes, wildlife and local culture. The festival also encourages community participation in conservation and has helped place the area on the itinerary of visitors seeking birdwatching experiences in the Northeast.
Tourism stakeholders said the growing interest could create opportunities for homestays, hotels, transport operators and other businesses linked to visitor activity. The potential benefits, however, depend on protecting the birds and their habitat during the short migration season.
Wildlife experts have stressed the need to prevent hunting, disturbance and habitat damage. They have also called for responsible tourism practices so that increased visitor movement does not affect feeding grounds or disrupt the birds during their stay.
Conservationists have said sustained protection, community participation and regulated tourism could help establish Umrangso as a major birdwatching destination in the Northeast. The forest department’s seasonal protection measures and the conduct of tourism activities will remain central to balancing visitor interest with the falcons’ need for undisturbed habitat.
