Mokokchung, 26 October (MTNews): The District Forest Officer (DFO) of Mokokchung Forest Division has issued an appeal to all conscientious citizens of the district, urging them to refrain from hunting Amur Falcons and to ensure a safe stay and passage for the migratory birds.
This appeal comes as the annual arrival of the migratory bird, the Amur Falcon, locally known as ‘Molulem,’ has begun in Nagaland. These magnificent avian travelers embark on a long and arduous journey, spanning up to 22,000 kilometers each year, all the way from eastern Asia to South Africa and back, usually in early autumn.
“In Nagaland, they gather in huge flocks (up to 1,00,000 nos.) for up to 3- 4 weeks to feed and rest before continuing their journey. They play an important role in the ecosystem – acting as natural regulators of pest population, pollination etc.,” stated the DFO Mokokchung in a press statement.
The DFO also emphasized how the combined efforts of the state government and the public have, over the years, earned Nagaland the title of “Amur Falcon capital of the world.”
Furthermore, the DFO reminded the public that the Amur Falcon enjoys legal protection under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. According to this Act, the Amur Falcon (Falco Amurensis) is categorized as a protected species listed in Schedule IV of the law. Hunting these birds or possessing their meat is a criminal offense, carrying a penalty of up to three years of imprisonment under the Act.
The DFO concluded by appealing to all responsible citizens of the district to abstain from hunting of Amur Falcons and provide a safe stay and passage to ‘our State Guest’.