Amur Falcon (Falco amurensis) – The Aerial Marathoner

The Amur Falcon is a small, migratory raptor renowned for its remarkable long-distance flights and ecological importance. Recently, Manipur’s Tamenglong district announced a complete ban on hunting, catching, killing, and selling the bird, reinforcing conservation efforts to protect this incredible species.


Taxonomy and Identification

Scientific Name: Falco amurensis

Named After: The Amur River, which flows through its breeding grounds in Siberia, Mongolia, and northern China.

Size: Small falcon; females are slightly larger than males.

Appearance:

Distinct eye masks

Bright yellow ceres (the fleshy base of the beak)



Migration: A Marvel of Nature

The Amur Falcon holds the distinction of being the world’s longest-distance migrating raptor.

Wintering Grounds: Southern and Eastern Africa

Migration Route:

Stops over in India (especially the Northeast) during the journey.

Performs a non-stop flight of 3,000 km across the Arabian Sea — a truly awe-inspiring feat of endurance.


Diet and Role in Ecosystems

Primary Diet: Insects, especially locusts and termites.

Ecological Role: Acts as a natural pest control agent, protecting crops and maintaining insect population balance.


Habitat

Prefers open woodlands and marshes, both in breeding and migratory phases.


Conservation Status

IUCN Red List: Least Concern (LC)

CITES (CMS): Appendix II

Wildlife Protection Act (India), 1972: Schedule I

Offers the highest level of protection under Indian law.



Threats

Despite its wide range and adaptability, the Amur Falcon faces several conservation challenges:

Illegal trapping and hunting during migration.

Habitat loss due to deforestation and development.



Amur Falcons in India

India plays a crucial role in the falcons’ migratory journey, serving as a significant stopover point:

Seen in Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and parts of Assam.

Locally known as Kahuaipuina in Nagaland and Manipur.


Nagaland: The Falcon Capital of the World

The Doyang Reservoir near Pangti Village has become globally recognized as a major roosting site.

Community-driven conservation efforts here have transformed Nagaland into the “Falcon Capital of the World”.

Earlier, mass hunting occurred, but local awareness campaigns and community participation led to the cessation of killings and adoption of protective measures.


Recent Developments

Tamenglong district, Manipur, imposed a strict ban on any activity harmful to Amur Falcons, indicating a growing commitment across northeastern India to protect these birds during their vital migratory rest.



Conclusion

The Amur Falcon is not only a symbol of endurance and migratory wonder but also a critical player in ecological balance. India’s proactive measures — from Nagaland’s community conservation to Manipur’s recent hunting ban — exemplify how human engagement can secure the future of a species that unites Asia and Africa in its incredible journey.