Every year, thousands of migratory birds travel across continents to find a safe place to rest and feed. This season, Assam is making sure its feathered visitors get exactly that! With over one lakh Amur Falcons arriving in the state, the Forest Department has introduced restrictions on unauthorised drone operations around their important roosting sites.

The move aims to protect the birds from unnecessary disturbances and ensure their remarkable migratory journey continues safely.

A Safe Landing for Over One Lakh Winged Visitors

The restrictions cover important Amur Falcon congregation and roosting sites, particularly Umrangso in Dima Hasao district and Dharamtul in Morigaon district.

Under an order issued on November 6 by Assam's Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, unauthorised recreational, commercial and non-essential drone operations have been prohibited around these locations during the birds' seasonal stay.

Photography and videography activities that could disturb the birds have also been brought under the restrictions. The decision follows concerns that drones flying too close to large bird congregations could cause collisions, injuries and disruptions to their natural behaviour, including resting and feeding.

Why Drones Can Be Dangerous for Migratory Birds

While aerial photography offers spectacular views, flying drones close to large bird gatherings can have serious consequences. The propellers pose a potential collision risk, while the noise and movement of drones can frighten birds and interrupt their natural activities.

According to ANI, conservation organisation Aaranyak had earlier urged authorities to introduce strict restrictions after observing visitors and content creators flying drones near Amur Falcon congregations to capture photographs and videos for social media. The organisation called for clearly marked no-drone buffer zones and stronger monitoring to protect the birds.

Forest Department Steps Up Protection

The Assam Forest Department has directed Divisional Forest Officers to identify and demarcate sensitive roosting areas. They will coordinate with district administrations and police authorities to enforce the restrictions, including temporary no-drone zones wherever necessary.

Public awareness campaigns will also be conducted to sensitise tourists, photographers, content creators and local communities. The restrictions will remain in force throughout the birds' seasonal presence or until further orders.

Forest Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah has urged residents and visitors to treat the migratory birds as honoured guests and avoid disturbing their natural activities.

A Remarkable Journey Across Continents

Amur Falcons are known for their extraordinary long-distance migration. Every year, these small but resilient birds travel thousands of kilometres from their breeding grounds in eastern Asia to their wintering destinations in southern Africa.

Northeast India, including Assam, serves as an important stopover along this incredible journey. With over one lakh falcons now visiting the state, Assam's latest conservation measure sends out an important message: sometimes, protecting wildlife means knowing when to keep our cameras and drones away.

After all, the best way to welcome these winged visitors is to let them spread their wings in peace!