First-Ever Sighting of Falcated Duck at Telaiya Dam in Koderma Bird Census
The annual bird census conducted this season at the picturesque Telaiya Dam in Koderma has made a remarkable discovery, recording for the first time the arrival of the Falcated Duck. This dabbling duck, native to eastern Asia, was spotted during the census, marking a significant event for birdwatchers and conservationists in the region.
Census Details and Team Efforts
The census was carried out on January 30 by a dedicated four-member team led by Satya Prakash, the state coordinator of the Indian Bird Conservation Network (IBCN). The team included Murari Singh, Amit Jain, Anil Das, and Rahul Kumar from the Koderma forest department. Their efforts resulted in the recording of approximately 11,000 migratory birds in and around the iconic Telaiya Dam, showcasing the area's rich avian diversity.
Significance of the Falcated Duck Sighting
The sighting of the Falcated Duck has generated excitement among bird enthusiasts, who are now advocating for more comprehensive conservation measures to protect the ecology around the water body. Parts of the dam extend into the adjoining Hazaribag district, emphasizing the need for regional cooperation in habitat preservation.
The Falcated Duck breeds primarily in southern regions of eastern Siberia, extending west to the Angara Basin, south to northern Mongolia, Heilungkiang in China, and Hokkaido in Japan, and north to southern Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands. Studies indicate that its winter migratory range includes northeastern India and further west across India and Nepal. This species is highly valued in aviculture and serves as an important indicator of habitat quality, being primarily herbivorous.
Insights from the Census Coordinator
Speaking about the discovery, Satya Prakash shared, "The Falcated Duck was sighted for the first time during this census and is rarely seen in other water bodies of Jharkhand. We spotted a pair at Telaiya Dam. These birds migrate from East Siberia and Mongolia." He also noted an increase in bird species diversity this season, with around 50 different species recorded, which he described as a cause for celebration.
Bird Species Recorded and Habitat Concerns
Among the species observed, common coot and red-crested pochard were seen in the highest numbers. Other notable species included common pochard, Eurasian coot, gadwall, common sandpiper, tufted pochard, oriental white ibis, and northern pintail. Located about 18 km from the district headquarters, Telaiya Dam was declared an important bird area in 2017, attracting migratory birds from Central Asian regions such as Mongolia, China, and Tibet annually.
However, Prakash expressed concern over activities like floating solar projects and cage fish culture, which have led to a shrinking of bird habitats at the dam. "While floating solar plants may be environmentally friendly, they are not very friendly from a biodiversity point of view," he cautioned, highlighting the need to balance development with conservation.
Forest Department's Commitment
Koderma divisional forest officer (DFO) Saumitra Shukla acknowledged the crucial role of migratory birds in maintaining biodiversity. "The department will take all necessary steps to preserve a suitable environment for our winged guests," he assured, underscoring the commitment to protecting these vital ecosystems for future generations.
