The Department of Wildlife has begun work on the project of constructing new and attractive habitats for the migratory birds which travel from colder regions, including Siberia, in the winter season in search of food and a warmer climate.
According to well-informed officials, the habitats will be created along the flyway routes and temporary staying areas for these migratory water birds. The migratory birds will start coming to Pakistan from Siberia after a month. The wetlands will be extended in the flyway routes for these birds and such crops and vegetation will be planted in these wetlands which will provide food for these birds, the official added.
The arrival of these migratory water birds in Pakistan and the Rawalpindi Division will start in early November when the freezing cold weather in Siberia and the adjacent sea covers their food i.e. fish and seaweed under a thin layer of ice.
Their habitats in Pakistan comprise forest areas of Chenab River, Indus River, and large lakes of the Potohar region. However, in Rawalpindi Division, these waterfowl flock to Mangala Dam, Rawal Dam and Neelam River, Dharabi Lake, in Chakwal District and start returning to colder regions towards the end of February.
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In addition, they come to Pakistan in the form of groups through a specific air route. For this purpose, the wildlife department has launched a project to increase wetlands in all areas below the flyway of these visiting waterfowl, to grow food in the lakes and wetlands along the favourite habitats of these birds.
In order to save their lives, hunting of these water birds has also been prohibited from November to March 31. A complete ban has been imposed on the hunting of these birds in the areas of fly routes, dams, rivers, and lakes. In case of violation, arrests will be made, cases will be filed and heavy fines will be charged for poaching.
