Amur falcons have started arriving in Manipur for their annual winter migration, while local authorities have put a strict ban on hunting the birds.
The annual winter migration of Amur falcons has commenced in Manipur's Tamenglong district, with initial sightings reported in Guangram village on October 11, 2026. These birds arrive in the region annually from northeast China to roost before continuing their journey to Africa.
Amit Kelar, the Tamenglong Divisional Forest Officer, confirmed the arrival of the birds in small batches. Local village councils and forest protection squads are working together to renew anti-poaching measures to ensure their safety.
To strengthen conservation efforts, Tamenglong District Magistrate Dr. L. Angshim Dangshawa issued an order on October 14, 2026, under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
This order mandates a total prohibition on hunting, catching, trapping, killing, injuring, possessing, transporting, or selling the species. Residents of 35 identified roosting and neighboring villages have been directed to deposit their air guns with local authorities by October 20, 2026. Village authorities are required to submit compliance reports to the District Magistrate's office by October 22.
Amur falcons are protected under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, listed under Schedule IV. Research initiatives led by the Manipur Forest Department in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India continue to track migration patterns through satellite telemetry. Dr. Suresh Kumar of the WII is currently monitoring two tagged falcons that departed northeastern China on October 10
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The Tamenglong Forest Division is organizing a season-long program featuring awareness campaigns to promote bird conservation.