G’bal:The Shallabugh Wetland in Ganderbal district has once again witnessed the arrival of large flocks of migratory birds, marking the beginning of the winter migration season in the Kashmir Valley.
Officials of the Forest Department said that around 2.5 lakh migratory birds have already reached the wetland, while more flocks are expected in the coming weeks. Block Forest Officer Aijaz Ahmed said the wetland has started filling with winter visitors that travel thousands of kilometres from colder regions to spend the winter months in Kashmir.
He said the species recorded so far include mallard, greylag goose, coot, pintail, purple swamp hen, moorhen, pochard, shoveller, Siberian geese and ducks, besides several other rare migratory birds. The presence of such a wide variety of species reflects the healthy ecological condition of the wetland, officials added.
Spread over nearly 34,000 kanals, Shallabugh is the largest wetland in Jammu and Kashmir and serves as an important wintering and stopover habitat for migratory waterfowl. During winter, the wetland turns into a natural sanctuary, providing abundant food and favourable climatic conditions for birds.Environmentalists said the annual arrival of migratory birds highlights the ecological importance of Shallabugh and the need for continued conservation efforts to protect the fragile ecosystem from encroachment, pollution and other threats. Locals and nature lovers have welcomed the arrival of the birds, calling it a positive sign for biodiversity in the region. Officials have urged visitors to avoid disturbing the birds and to help in preserving the natural habitat.
