Long dry spell, parched wetlands delay arrival of avian visitors to Kashmir Valley

The prolonged dry weather in the Kashmir Valley has left its wetlands parched, significantly impacting the arrival of migratory birds. As December approaches, bird watchers report a notable decline in the number of avian visitors compared to previous years.

Typically, by late September or October, lakhs of birds from Siberia, China, Central Asia, and Northern Europe migrate to the Valley’s wetlands, with the Hokersar wetland—a Ramsar site of international importance near Srinagar—hosting the largest numbers. However, this year, officials and bird watchers note a sharp decline.

“If we compare the numbers to the same period last year, it’s clear the arrivals are fewer,” said Ghulam Hassan, a wetland official. On average, 7-8 lakh migratory birds visit the Valley’s wetlands annually.

Experts attribute the lower bird numbers to various factors. “We’re witnessing the effects of global warming. Prolonged summers have delayed the onset of extreme winter, causing a 10-15 day delay in bird arrivals,” said a Srinagar-based bird expert. He added that local conditions, such as reduced rainfall and dry wetlands, have exacerbated the problem. “These factors combined are responsible for the fewer birds this November, but with changing weather, the numbers are expected to rise in the coming days.”

Bird watcher Reyan Sofi highlighted the dryness of the wetlands as a critical issue. “By this time last year, we had more migratory birds. This year, due to the dry wetlands, we haven’t seen as many yet,” he said. The key wetlands of Shallabugh, Hygam, Mirgund, and Hokersar remained dry for a significant period. “Birds have started arriving now, but if their habitats are unsuitable, they’ll move to other areas,” he warned.

Experts and researchers have expressed concern over the Hokersar wetland, also known as ‘Queen of Wetlands’, which has shrunk considerably over past many years. Researchers say from 1969 to 2008, the spatial extents of wetland have reduced from 18.75 sq km in 1969 to 13 sq km and a marshy area within the wetland has also shrunk by 150 hectares.

Without action, these vital bird habitats—and the migratory birds they attract—face an uncertain future.