Ziro, Apr 18: In a remarkable development for birdwatchers and conservationists alike, seven new species of migratory birds have been sighted in the Ziro valley of Arunachal Pradesh, adding to the region’s growing avian biodiversity.
The sightings occurred during a recent "Ziro Bird Walk" organized by a team of local bird enthusiasts, who spotted the birds in the traditional wet farmlands known locally as Aji. These species had not been previously recorded in the bird checklist for the area.
On receiving information about the sightings, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Ngilyang Tam, Kamle district medical officer Dr Tage Kanno, and several nature lovers conducted a three-hour early morning bird walk to verify the presence of these rare visitors.
Among the highlights were sightings of the Greater White-fronted Goose and the Black-winged Stilt, both previously unrecorded in Ziro.
Adding to the excitement, the group also confirmed the presence of The Little Stint, bringing the number of newly reported migratory bird species to seven in just one week. A total of 21 bird species were documented during the walk.
Koj Mama, a renowned conservationist and president of the Arunachal Pradesh Birding Club, said the discovery of species such as the Pied Avocet and Greater White-fronted Goose, typically found in the eastern Himalayan belt, underscores the ecological importance of Ziro valley.
“These sightings signify the crucial role of Ziro’s traditional farmlands as a habitat for migratory birds. It reinforces the need for sustained conservation efforts in the region,” Mama said.
The newly reported species include the Chinese Pond Heron, Eurasian Curlew, Pied Avocet, Black-Winged Stilt, Greater Painted Snipe, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Little Stint.
Conservationists believe the presence of these species in Ziro further enhances the valley’s reputation as an emerging hotspot for bird migration studies and biodiversity conservation.
