Migration of birds and their flyways in India

Abstract

Every year in most parts of the Northern Hemisphere, a large number of avian species move toward the south for wintering and after spending the winter season at their respective destinations they return back using the same migratory routes. This phenomenon is known as bird migration and routes followed by migratory birds are known as flyways of migration. Over 2000 species of birds are known to participate in migration. Some species exhibit longitudinal movements and/or local migration, relatively covering a short distance. Due to multiple factors, most migratory birds face a number of threats and their species diversity and populations are declining worldwide. To ensure the conservation and sustainability of migratory birds a number of measures have been adopted by United Nations at the global level and multi-lateral treaties/ cooperation have been enforced. India is a party to the Convention on Migratory Species and is playing a crucial role in the conservation of migratory birds in India. A total of 128 avian species are listed in the appendices of the convention. A total of 7 species are covered in appendix-I and 103 species in appendix-II, while 18 species are covered by both appendices. The Central Asian Flyway encompasses several important bird migration routes between Eurasia and the Indian Ocean including India. Over 180 migratory birds including some globally threatened species are known to use this flyway. Studies carried out in India, provide rich information on migratory birds and their habitats.