The return of Amur falcons to Manipur marks a significant milestone in a satellite-tracking project studying the extraordinary migration of these long-distance travellers. Two tagged birds, Apapang and Alang, have returned to the northeastern Indian state after journeying across 23 countries during their migration through Asia and Africa, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced.
The falcons arrived in Manipur after departing from their breeding grounds in northeastern China 11 days earlier. Their return completes a major stage of the tracking exercise that began in November 2025, when scientists from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) fitted the birds with satellite tags.
Yadav described the birds as “truly global citizens”, highlighting the remarkable distances they cover and the scientific value of monitoring their movements across continents.
Manipur Stopover Helps Falcons Prepare for Their Next Journey
Apapang and Alang are expected to spend two to three weeks at selected stopover sites in the mountainous terrain of Manipur's Tamenglong district.
The region is an important resting point during the birds' annual migration. Local communities play a key role in protecting the falcons and look forward to their seasonal arrival.
During their stay, the birds are expected to feed on termites emerging around their stopover sites. This helps them build up fat reserves, providing the energy required for the next demanding phase of their journey.
From Manipur, the falcons are expected to travel towards Somalia in Africa. This leg involves an estimated six-day nonstop flight covering nearly 6,000 kilometres, including a challenging crossing of approximately 3,000 kilometres over the Arabian Sea.
Why Amur Falcons Are Remarkable Migrants
Amur falcons (Falco amurensis) are small migratory birds of prey that breed in northeastern Asia and travel thousands of kilometres to reach their wintering grounds in Africa.
Northeastern India provides crucial stopover areas during their migration. Manipur's experience also demonstrates how community participation can support the conservation of migratory wildlife.
The birds previously faced hunting threats in parts of the region. Continued conservation efforts and local involvement have helped strengthen protection for the species during its seasonal visits.
Satellite Tracking Offers New Insights
Tracking Apapang and Alang is helping researchers examine migration routes, stopover behaviour and the birds' endurance during long-distance flights. Their movements across multiple countries and challenging ocean crossings provide valuable information for understanding migratory patterns.
The project also highlights the importance of protecting habitats along international migration routes, as these birds depend on suitable resting and feeding sites during their journeys.
For official conservation updates, visit the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
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