The number of avian visitors increased as the colder climate toned down and hours of sunlight increased. Even as water bodies were covered with a colourful and vibrant carpet of migratory birds of different colours and types, illegal poaching activity has kept pace with the Siberian birds.

Although poaching of migratory birds is acknowledged to be continuing, the Forest Department has remained apathetic to the plunder. According to local sources, in Uddham Singh Nagar District the migratory birds started arriving in dozens of water reservoirs including Haripura, Bor and Nanak Sagar Dam reservoir.

Compared to data of past years, the arrival of migratory birds was delayed while there was also a drop in the number of the winged guests. Various reasons are cited as explanation for the negative trend in migratory birds which include global warming and climate change.

However, in Uddham Singh Nagar, the increasing environmental pollution caused by expanding urbanisation and indiscriminate construction activities is considered to be the main factor discouraging the migratory birds. Sites in pristine natural condition which till a few years ago presented ideal habitat for both local and visiting birds have now degenerated into noisy and contaminated hubs of human activity. Migratory birds which in the past were attracted to this region for its environment and serenity now deter the visitors because of the contaminated environment. Though the Government had claimed to be working to develop eco-tourism in Uttarakhand, the poaching of migratory birds has continued unabated in the dozens of water reservoirs located in Uddham Singh Nagar District.

Sources state that the Forest Department is aware of the danger faced by migratory birds in the District. Trade in the meat of migratory birds has continued to thrive in the local market with increase in number of birds smuggled to other States as exotic pets.