The picturesque landscapes of Dima Hasao district have received an extraordinary avian blessing as several rare bird species have made their appearance at the Umrangso reservoir, potentially establishing the area as a premier birdwatching destination in Northeast India.
Unprecedented Avian Arrival
Debolal Gorlosa, the chief executive member of Dima Hasao autonomous council, brought this exciting development to public attention through social media on Thursday afternoon. The sighting represents what local authorities are calling an "unusual and significant event" for the hill district.
Over the past two days, bird enthusiasts have witnessed remarkable congregations of ruddy shelduck, seagulls, and the oriental darter around the reservoir waters. According to Joyshringdao Phonglo, chairman of the Dima Hasao tourism department, this likely marks the first official recording of these specific rare birds within the district boundaries.
Meet the Rare Visitors
The oriental darter has particularly captured attention with its distinctive appearance. Gorlosa described it as "a fantastic water bird of tropical South and Southeast Asia", noting its characteristic long, slender neck and straight, pointed bill that make it easily identifiable.
The ruddy shelduck presents a striking sight with its large, orange-brown plumage. This waterfowl species typically breeds in Central Asia and migrates to the Indian subcontinent during winter months. Perhaps most surprising is the presence of seagulls, which are generally associated with coastal regions rather than internal water bodies like Umrangso.
Conservation and Tourism Implications
Gorlosa has made a strong appeal for conservation efforts, urging forest department officials to implement necessary protective measures. "I request the forest department officials to take necessary steps for the protection of these birds," he stated, while also appealing to visitors and local residents to avoid any activities that might harm the birds or their environment.
Phonglo expressed optimism about the development, describing the arrival of these species in the mountainous region as "a very important and good sign" for the district's ecological health and tourism prospects.
This avian phenomenon builds upon Dima Hasao's existing reputation as a haven for migratory birds, most notably the Amur Falcons. The continued arrival of rare and migratory species positions the region as a promising hub for bird-watching and eco-tourism.
Environmental experts believe this development could help Dima Hasao establish a sustainable tourism model that generates local employment through nature-based tourism while simultaneously ensuring habitat conservation. The district now stands at the threshold of becoming a significant destination for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts across India.
