Jharkhand Becomes Winter Haven for Migratory Birds: 30,000 Flock to State’s Water Bodies as Temperatures Drop

Ranchi: With the onset of colder weather, Jharkhand’s reservoirs and wetlands have once again come alive with the vibrant sights and sounds of migratory birds. Every year, thousands of birds escape extreme winter conditions in their native regions—Central Asia, the Himalayan region, Mongolia, and the Tibetan Plateau—and make Jharkhand their winter sanctuary.

Seeking Shelter in State’s Water Bodies
According to Satyaprakash, Jharkhand coordinator for the Asian Waterbird Census (AWC), these birds take refuge in reservoirs, lakes, rivers, and wildlife sanctuaries during winter, primarily for food and protection from severe cold in their native habitats.

Udhwa Sanctuary a Favorite Destination
The birds have started arriving at various water bodies, including Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary (Sahebganj), Patratu Dam (Ramgarh), Topchanchi Lake, Tilaiya and Maithon Dams (Dhanbad), Kanke and Rukka Dams (Ranchi), Dimna Lake (Jamshedpur), Baska Dam (Chatra), and others. The Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary in Sahebganj remains one of the most preferred destinations for migratory birds.

Ramsar Site Hosts 160 Bird Species
The 565-hectare sanctuary in Sahebganj district features two natural inflow lakes, Patoura and Barhale, and is Jharkhand’s only Ramsar site, housing around 160 bird species, according to Divisional Forest Officer Prabal Garg.

Arrival of 25,000–30,000 Migratory Birds
During winter, the most commonly observed species include Bar-headed Geese, Northern Pintails, Gadwalls, Mallards, and Red-crested Pochards, while species like Red-wattled Lapwings, Snipes, Little Grebes, and Kowalski’s Ducks contribute to the sanctuary’s year-round avian diversity. Experts estimate that 25,000 to 30,000 migratory birds visit Jharkhand’s water bodies annually.

The Forest Department has instructed divisional officers to activate forest protection committees to monitor activities at these water bodies and to report any suspicious activity immediately to ensure the safety of the migratory population.