IMPHAL, Nov 8 - After Tamenglong, Ukhrul became the second district of Manipur to impose a total ban on hunting, catching, and selling of Amur Falcons (Falcon Amurensis) locally known as �Langthik Hunting/destruction of wildlife including migratory Amur Falcons for food or possession or otherwise is punishable under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, the Ukhrul Deputy Commissioner said in an order issued recently.
The order was issued after villagers sighted Amur Falcons in Hatha, Ramva (Lambui), Finch Corner and Shangshak areas of Ukhrul district since last month. Emphasising on the need to maintain ecological balance for harmonious co-existence of different organisms and the role played by these migratory birds in preserving the ecosystem, it said, �Ukhrul is known for its rich biodiversity and hospitality of the people, which is needed to welcome these winged visitors and protect them to make this place one of their favourite global destinations to visit and roost.�
Stating that there is a likelihood of these migratory birds roosting till the end of November, which is considered crucial in their life cycle, it added that the concerned village authorities of Hatha, Ramva (Lambui) and Shangshak should strictly monitor the implementation of the district authority�s directive.
In case of any report of its violation, the concerned Sub-divisional Officer should take appropriate action in accordance with the existing law and in consultation with the Divisional Forest Officer, Ukhrul, it added.
On October 31, the Deputy Commissioner of Tamenglong district had also issued a similar order banning hunting of Amur Falcons during their annual migration.
These pigeon-sized migratory birds arrive in large numbers in October in Manipur and Nagaland from their breeding ground in China and leave the region after having enough food for their non-stop flight to Africa where they spend their winters.
To study their migratory route and also to create public awareness about the importance of conserving such birds, Wildlife Institute of India scientists had radio-tagged five Amur Falcons in Manipur on October 31 and November 1 last year with the support of the State Forest Department, Tamenglong district administration, Rainforest Club, Tamenglong, and local villagers. The radio-tagging of Amur Falcons started in Manipur in 2018.
