JAGATSINGHPUR: Migratory birds are now rarely visiting small islands and forests in Jagatsinghpur which has reported rampant poaching and pollution. While a large number of birds used to visit the district during winter months earlier, their number has now drastically come down.
Last week, two poachers were arrested by Wildlife officer for allegedly hunting migratory birds in Jagatsinghpur and a dead whistling teal was recovered from them.
Sources said small islands of Baruna and Bandar in Balikuda attracted thousands of migratory birds from Siberia from December to February every year. Similarly, another island Balideep near Jatadhari river mouth and Dhartangarh forest attracted many birds. Locals said migratory birds are falling prey to poachers, who sell their meat and even beaks in the open market. The meat of a migratory bird costs between `50 and `75 per kg depending on the size of the bird.
Pollution is another reason behind the dwindling number of migratory birds. Sources said effluents from fertiliser plants and industries in Paradip have polluted the sea water.
A few migratory birds are now seen in Balikuda-Ersama coastline which is less polluted compared to other areas in the coastal district. “Only enactment of forest laws will not protect migratory and other birds. Poaching has to be curbed and water bodies need to be pollution free to attract birds,” said environmentalist Amar Prasad Mohanty.
